Welcome to Around the Dirt, where the passion for bat and ball sports meets a positive online environment. As we gear up to launch our podcasts in June and unveil our website this summer, we are thrilled to introduce ourselves and our mission to you.
The Around the Dirt Mission and Vision
Around the Dirt (ATD) originated from a simple yet powerful vision: to create a space where the Arizona softball community could thrive without the toxicity often found on existing platforms. Our founder, BJ Johnson, a devoted trainer and softball dad, saw the need for a place where fastpitch enthusiasts could celebrate victories, share insights, and support one another's growth. What began as a modest private Facebook community quickly blossomed into a vibrant network, now boasting over 7,000 members and growing daily.
Addressing Community Needs: ATD’s Evolution and Expansion
During its infancy stages, it was clear that the ATD community valued connection and needed access to answers and important updates. Tired of scouring through multiple online platforms, athletes, parents, coaches, trainers, tournament directors, vendors, and other enthusiasts frequented the ATD group, often seeking ONE major solution: access to immediate information.
After 5 years of community participation, the need for a more sophisticated platform became abundantly clear in order to solve a multitude of common problems.
The Team Driving Around the Dirt’s Mission Forward
With the aspiration of transforming the ATD Facebook group into something much larger, BJ recognized the need to collaborate with other like-minded individuals who had varying perspectives of the game. He set out to establish the Around the Dirt Team, consisting of local catching instructor and business mentor, Erin White with Gear Up Catching and former collegiate softball player turned coach, Molly Smith-Valdivia.
Identifying Pain Points for the ATD Community
Upon receiving feedback from our members and trying to help them navigate the journey, the ATD team was able to categorize the problems into three main pain points:
- Time-consuming research
- Exposure
- Navigating the financial complexities of participating in the sport.
As a result, Around the Dirt has evolved into a nationwide website that will provide a single-source solution dedicated to connecting, educating, and empowering the bat and ball community.
The Around the Dirt Solution for the Bat and Ball Community
The new Around the Dirt platform covers all the bases, offering an online epicenter where you can find the latest news, educational resources, and opportunities for connection—all without the hassle of scouring through multiple platforms.
At Around the Dirt, we're more than just a social platform—we're a resource hub for everything related to bat and ball sports. Whether you're seeking training tips, tournament information, or connections within the community, we've got you covered.
Our mission is clear: to be the go-to destination for softball and baseball enthusiasts at every level.
But our vision extends beyond simply providing information. We aim to foster unity and empowerment within our community, equipping individuals with the tools they need to succeed. We believe in the power of connection, recognizing the profound impact that the game can have on individuals' lives.
Join Us on the Around the Dirt Journey
As we embark on this journey, we invite you to join us in building a positive, supportive community for B&B sports. Whether you're a seasoned player, a dedicated parent, a passionate coach, or simply an enthusiast, there's a place for you at Around the Dirt.
Stay tuned for more updates as we launch our podcasts and website, and thank you for being a part of the Around the Dirt family. Together, we can make a difference in the world of bat and ball sports.
