BROUSSARD, La. (KPEL News) - I remember my playing t-ball when I was around five or six. It was an opportunity to socialize outside of school. I forged friendships that endured through my childhood, and I learned the value of being part of a team. Baseball and softball teach patience, strategy, and the ability to handle both success and failure, as even the best players strike out or make errors. T-ball serves as a great introduction to the game, helping young children develop coordination, confidence, and a love for physical activity in a fun and encouraging setting. It also helped me learn to accept feedback and criticism, and use it in a productive way.

Youth sports, particularly baseball, softball, and T-ball, play a crucial role in the physical, social, and emotional development of children. These sports provide a structured environment where kids learn the fundamentals of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance—valuable life skills that extend far beyond the field.


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Credit: Broussard Sports Complex at St. Julien Park
Credit: Broussard Sports Complex at St. Julien Park
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“I encourage families to get involved in our youth baseball, softball, and t-ball programs at the Broussard Sports Complex at St. Julien Park. We welcome all children from Broussard and surrounding communities to participate.”  said Broussard Mayor Ray Bourque. The Broussard Sports Complex at St. Julien Park has opened up registration for Spring baseball, softball, and t-ball. There are a few important things to know if you are interested in signing your child up to play:

  • The deadline to register for spring season is Friday, February 14.
  • Boys and girls ages 4 – 14
  • Registration fee $100 for baseball/softball, $85 for t-ball
  • Multi-child discount $15

Hundreds of kids sign up to play each season, with all games played at Broussard Sports Complex at St. Julien Park. Tryouts will be held at the park on Saturday, February 15, no tryouts for t-ball. Opening Day will be Saturday, April 5. Go to broussardsportscomplex.com or the Broussard Sports Complex at St. Julien Park Facebook page for more information and to register.

“Our league provides positive, supportive, and supervised athletic competitions for kids in a family environment to learn teamwork and sportsmanship. It’s not too late to sign up, but the deadline is fast approaching,” said Jamey Abshire, City of Broussard Parks and Recreation Director. Beyond the personal benefits, youth sports help build strong communities by bringing families together and fostering a sense of camaraderie among players, coaches, and supporters. Local leagues create opportunities for mentorship, instill sportsmanship, and encourage kids to stay active in a time when screen time dominates much of their free time.

Additionally, these sports teach resilience and the importance of hard work, as players must practice, improve, and adapt to challenges. Whether a child continues playing competitively or simply enjoys the game recreationally, the lessons learned in baseball, softball, and T-ball contribute to lifelong character development and a healthy, active lifestyle.

Fun and Free for Kids and Parents in Lafayette

It seems like the cost of everything is going up. If you're a parent you want to take your kids out to enjoy our area, but it would also be nice to know where you can go and find attractions that don't cost anything.

Gallery Credit: Bernadette Lee