White Sox Training Academy: We Love This Game and the Kids Who Play It
Posted by Laura Nelson on January 18, 2010
Tim Rappe knew in 1993 that he was tired of selling radio advertising, power lunching and travel that kept him away from home. When he compiled a list of things that were important to him, kids and baseball were at the top. Rappe used his sales skills on Jerry Reinsdorf, owner of the Chicago White Sox and Bulls, to promote the training academy concept.
Tim Rappe, President, White Sox Training Academy
1994 brought the debut of White Sox summer camps throughout Chicagoland, with Chicago Bulls programs added in 1999. The summer camps were a tremendous success, and Rappe recognized the need for winter programs for aspiring athletes. Reinsdorf loved the idea of a permanent training academy, and put money behind the three story, 57,000 square foot complex in Lisle that has become a baseball, softball, basketball mecca, which opened in 2001.
Satellite facilities in LaGrange, Schererville, IN, Tinley Park and the new Ackerman Sports Complex in Glen Ellyn have been added since. About 10,000 kids each year participate in White Sox-sponsored academy programs.
The White Sox Training Academy is at 6200 River Bend Drive, Lisle. (630) 324-8221or BullsSoxAcademy.com.
Tags:Kids' Activities, People
