Coach proposes Florida spring‑training trip for Tri‑City United baseball; estimated player cost $1,200–$1,300

Greg Westerman, the district’s high‑school head baseball coach, presented a proposal to the school board for a five‑ to six‑day spring‑training trip to central Florida aimed at preseason practice and team bonding.

Westerman said the plan mirrors other area programs that use Cocoa Beach spring‑training facilities. He proposed March dates (he suggested March 24–29 to align with a school off day and the start of the season), a 16‑player roster with four athletes per hotel room and three to four coaches serving as chaperones. Lodging cited in the presentation was about $120 per night per player with 4‑person occupancy; Westerman estimated the out‑of‑pocket cost to families at roughly $1,200–$1,300 per player depending on travel and the final itinerary.

The booster club — newly formed last November — and its volunteers (Mike Jerrick and Josh Klinka were identified as booster‑club leaders) are expected to fundraise to offset the per‑player cost; Westerman said a $4,000–$5,000 contribution from the booster club would lower student costs for activities and evening meals. He suggested installment payment plans to spread family costs over several months and discussed fundraising ideas including a golf tournament, a mulch sale and a speed‑pitch booth at community events. The booster club reported a current balance around $7,000 that could be applied to trip subsidies.

The proposed trip would include morning practices or scrimmages (the high‑school league allows two or three scrimmages), afternoons for team activities and evening free time; Westerman mentioned proximity to attractions such as the Kennedy Space Center as possible team outings. Travel logistics described included hiring vans in Florida, consolidating equipment into a few large bags to limit checked baggage and coaches not charging booster funds for their travel.

Board members asked about affordability and equity; one board member said family cost is a concern and asked whether scholarships or other supports could be created. Westerman and booster‑club members agreed to explore sponsorships and scholarship options and to avoid drawing down funds needed for regular program operations. He recommended the board consider formal approval at a future meeting and noted the item will be placed on the board agenda in April for possible action.

No board vote was taken on the trip at the meeting; Westerman said the next steps are continued fundraising, a final budget, possible installment plans for families and formal placement on the April agenda for approval.