The Fairfield County Captains baseball program, which offers teams ranging from 10 and under to 18 and under, will begin the spring season in the coming weeks.

The organization was founded as a non-profit organization by John Klages in 2010. It started out with one team and has grown throughout the years. The program is a member of the American Association of Baseball Congress (AABC) and the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) ,and attends various tournaments each year.

The Fairfield County Captains mission is to create an environment in which players look forward to practices and games and find joy in playing baseball that will last a lifetime. To have a positive atmosphere, created and shaped by all — coaches, parents, and players. To teach the game of baseball at a higher level by: honoring the game, giving your best effort, learning from experience and learning through mistakes.

The Captains provide coaching and training by qualified professional instructors and ex-professional players including Lead Trainer and Head of Player Development Ian Thoesen, along with Dennis Accomando, Drew Accomando, and Mike Diaz. Dennis Accomando played for the University of Connecticut and the Atlanta Braves and was instrumental in getting the Captains program off the ground, Thoesen played professionally for three years in the Northern League, Diaz played for Southern Connecticut University and the Houston Astros, and Drew Accomando recently graduated from Eastern Connecticut State University where he was captain of the baseball team.

Last season the Captains organization played in many tournaments throughout the region, including Baseball Heaven on Long Island and at Harbor Yard in Bridgeport, as well as some home games in Newtown.

The AABC was formed in 1935 and its mission is to enlarge and advance the scope of amateur baseball by stimulating interest and competition, and to provide a sound, experienced organization to assist and educate local groups in obtaining the maximum health and citizenship values. It hosts annual National World Series tourneys for multiple age groups throughout the nation.

The AAU was formed on September 17, 1929 and is one of the largest, non-profit, volunteer, sports organizations in the United States. A multi-sport organization, the AAU is dedicated exclusively to the promotion and development of amateur sports and physical fitness programs. In 1996, the AAU joined forces with Walt Disney World and relocated its national headquarters to Orlando.

The Captains receive sponsorship funds from Aavon Pest Control, Caraluzzi’s Market, and My Place Restaurant. The organization has commitment from The McGuire’s Ale House and is looking for more sponsorship support.

The spring season will play out in April and May and be followed up by a summer campaign.

For more information about the Captains, visit www.fairfieldcountycaptains.com, or contact President John Klages at 203-969-4732.