My name is Raymond T. Payne and I live in Archer Lodge, NC (15 miles east of Raleigh).  I have 3 grown children (Andy Payne, Chris Payne and Susan Locklear); all of which played baseball/softball through college. Susan is the Baseball Director at the Archer Lodge Community Center, which is a non-profit organization run by volunteers in addition to her full time job with the City of Raleigh.

Last spring, Susie and the baseball coach (Adam Weaver), at the local high school (Corinth-Holders), had a discussion regarding the lack of competitive baseball leagues available for players 13 years of age and older.  The only option available seems to be travel ball which is very expensive and financially burdensome for families as it can cost anywhere from $400-1200 per season, per player.  Coach Weaver expressed interest in being able to re-establish American Legion Baseball in the area, particularly out of Post 71 in Clayton, NC, as it is the closest.  Susie then asked that I pursue making this a reality.

After attending a couple of meetings at Post 71, they agreed to sponsor 2 teams; a Senior team (ages 17-19) and a Junior team (ages 13-16).  The Legion, however, has very limited funding to help the team financially.  All donations are tax deductible as we are a 501(c)3 and 100% of the money raised will be used to cover team expenses, such as, insurance, baseballs, umpire fees, uniforms, equipment, field maintenance, etc.

For the LOVE of the game, I hope that you can help fund these young men.  We are providing a reasonable opportunity for players to continue to play competitive baseball without having the financial burden of travel baseball.

Thank you, in advance, for your support.