Al Beregin Field at Crocker Park in Lakeland

On Dec 17, 2013, longtime Lakeland resident Al Bergevin was honored for his passion for baseball, commitment to the youth, and dedication to the city.

Over 50 years ago, Al and two other gentlemen from Hudson, Wi decided it was about time that the children in the two towns were able to play baseball as part of a league. Together, they formed the St. Croix Valley League. Starting with just two teams, one each from Lakeland and Hudson, the first season consisted of only 5 games. With determination and excitement, not only from themselves, but from their players as well, the St. Croix Valley League became a reality and began to grow. Within a few years there were teams from Bayport, Lake Elmo, River Falls, New Richmond, Hammond, and Stillwater.

The players and their parents in Lakeland shared the same passion as their coach and they all came together to help continue Al’s efforts. Starting with little more than a baseball diamond, Al accepted an old A-frame building, donated by one of the parents, that acted as a concession stand to contribute to the fundraising efforts. Al rallied local businesses for donations and secured light bulbs for his players to sell as two other fund raising events. Al and the team had to put in many hours and a lot of hard work, but they were able to continue the dream of a successful baseball league. After a few years of funding themselves the Valley Athletic Association recognized the league and assisted in funding and eventually, after over 20 years as the St. Croix Valley League, they were absorbed by the.

Al’s commitment to the youth in Lakeland and the surrounding areas as well as his dedication to the city is what has allowed baseball to remain a summer pastime in Lakeland. He made sure that baseball continued in more ways than one. He found teams, funding, and even fought to keep the ballpark when the city had discussed tearing it down. The city is grateful for Al and his passion and devotion as if it were not for him, we would likely not have a ball field at Crocker park today.

The city surprised the former coach with a presentation at the city’s Christmas party. Before Al was able to enjoy a cookie, Mayor Bob Livingston called Al to the front of the room and read a proclamation making Dec. 18 Al Bergevin Day for the City of Lakeland. Then, Council Member Richard Glasgow, Al’s son AJ and some former ball players presented Al with a plaque that honors the past coach and league co-founder by naming the ball field at Crocker Park after him. The plaque is currently in his home, but when the snow melts and the 2014 ball season begins, the games will now be played at Al Bergevin Field. The evening did not end there however, as Al was also presented with a certificate of appreciation for the service he had done in the community. The certificate was issued by County Commissioner Gary Kriesel and presented by the mayor.

The event, which was a surprise to the former coach now in his 80’s, was to honor his work which started well over 50 years ago. His work which is still remember by many Lakeland residents as they were players and for some coaches in the league he helped co-found. Coach Al was able give so much to the children and City of Lakeland, it was the City’s time to give back to him.

Thanks Al for all you did and do for the city of Lakeland.

Asia Bednar, Parks Commissioner

Lakeland City Council