First String, “A Community Team, Inc., hereafter First String, Inc., is an organization comprised of individuals committed to building local communities by guiding youth in becoming productive citizens. First String, Inc.’s practices have a direct impact on the communities of northwest Urbana and northeast Champaign as we use baseball and other sports to teach integrity, good sportsmanship, honesty, fair play, loyalty, and respect for oneself and others. With a holistic approach that reinforces these characteristics, First String, Inc. aims to help youth become well-rounded, trustworthy, and compassionate individuals ready to make a marked but positive difference in the world.  

First String athletes, families, and board members attend a White Sox game each year to celebrate Negro League baseball heritage. This year's trip was in honor and memory of Ernie Westfield, Sr., pitcher in the Negro Leagues from 1959-1965 and former coach and board member for First String. This trip is an annual celebration and we will end our 2023 baseball season with another trip. Join us! Details will be provided later.