Signup Open for Never Say Can't Baseball Showcase

Boys from around the Des Moines area can sign up now for the Never Say Can't Baseball Showcase to be held July 14 at the Johnston High School athletic fields.

Organizers want the showcase to be a session of skills and feedback for current freshmen and sophomores. Athletes will spend half a day hitting, throwing and running for high school and college baseball coaches from across the Midwest.

Coaches from Central College, Luther College, Cornell College, Grand View University, Coe College, Winona State University, Upper Iowa University and Des Moines Area Community College are expected to attend, according to the foundation website.

The Never Say Can't Foundation was created by Curt and Tammy Nelson in memory of their son, Spencer, who died in 2012. He was an avid baseball player.

"It's a learning tool for parents and athletes," Curt Nelson said. "This is unique in Iowa. It's giving back to the game."

Athletes will know what they need to work on to improve their game, and parents and boys will hear about what to expect in the college recruiting process. 

While similar showcases are aimed at juniors and seniors and cost from $450 to $750, the Johnston event will cost $125, with an additional $25 fee for a second position evaluation.

In addition to the baseball showcase, a picnic and silent auction will be held between the baseball showcase morning and afternoon sessions. Proceeds from the showcase will benefit the Kiwanis Miracle League of Des Moines.