Loyal To My Soil, a nonprofit organization founded by former major-league pitcher Tyson Ross, is making strides in reviving youth baseball in underserved communities. Established during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, the organization aims to make baseball accessible to children who are often priced out of youth sports.
Ross, a former San Diego Padres player and an Oakland native, returned to his roots with a vision to reconnect with his community. “It turned out to be the best decision I ever made,” Ross said about returning home during the pandemic. He noticed that local leagues were struggling and decided to take action.
The organization began its journey by collaborating with the Oakland Bulldogs youth baseball team. Ross and his brother Joe, also an MLB pitcher for the Philadelphia Phillies, surprised young players with custom gloves and spent time engaging with them. “We signed autographs and did a Q&A with the kids and their parents,” Ross said.
Although this event was memorable, Ross realized more needed to be done. This led to the official formation of Loyal To My Soil. The name symbolizes nurturing potential despite challenging circumstances. “I wanted them to have bigger dreams,” Ross explained.
Initially focusing on Bay Area communities, Loyal To My Soil has since expanded its reach through partnerships with Cal’s baseball program and former Golden Bears now playing professionally. Camps have been held in Berkeley, Richmond, Honolulu, and Arizona.
Maria Rojas, whose children have attended these camps, highlighted their impact: “Meeting and learning from Major League Baseball players…are the highlights.” Chris McClarty from Oakland Bulldogs echoed this sentiment: “What he’s doing is more than amazing.”
Keeping camps free remains a priority for Loyal To My Soil. Initially funded by Ross himself, fundraising efforts now include an annual golf event at Ruby Hill in Pleasanton. “I’ve met so many great people who just want to come out and support what our organization is doing,” said Ross.
For more information about Loyal To My Soil’s initiatives or how you can get involved or support them financially through donations or attending events like their annual golf fundraiser at Ruby Hill Country Club visit LoyalToMySoil.org.
