Baker named state director

By Andy Brown

Published: June 19, 2008

Eufaula Parks and Recreation Department Recreation Coordinator Wayne Baker has been named Dixie Softball’s state director.

The position is a volunteer position and will not interfere with Baker’s role with the EPRD.

As state director, Baker will oversee Alabama’s six districts. He was awarded the position after claiming the majority of the approximately 150 votes from Dixie Softball franchises across the state.

“It’s a big job, but I’m honored to have the chance to serve in this position,” Baker said. “Over the years I’ve worked with a lot of people across the state and it’s surely an honor that they would not only nominate me for state director, but also vote for me.”

Baker, who considers volunteering with Dixie Softball on the state level to be his hobby, has served as the District VI director for eight years. Prior to holding that position, he served as District VI assistant director for six years.

He will serve a three-year term as state director beginning Aug. 1. He replaces Mickey Snell.

“I don’t hunt and I don’t fish,” Baker said. “I go to ball games. That’s one of the things that excites me the most about having the chance to be the state director. I’ll get to travel around to the different district tournaments, the state tournaments and World Series and see these girls play their very best softball. I enjoy that.”

Baker’s new role could also benefit the Bluff City.

“I’ll have some influence, and it’s no secret I’d like to see another World Series come to Eufaula,” he said.

Eufaula last hosted a World Series in 2002 when it served as the site for both the Dixie Angels and Dixie Ponytails World Series.

“We like having big events,” Baker said. “We love to have the best teams coming to Eufaula to play, and we believe it has a positive influence on our own programs because the kids get the chance to see the best of the best and what it takes to get that level. We’d love to host another World Series and several state tournaments over the next few years. That’s definitely something I’m going to work to see happen.”

Dixie Softball has franchises in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia.

Eufaula’s Dixie Softball franchise dates back to the 1980s.