Flycatchers Seek Community Support for Housing, Team Bus Ahead of 2026 Season

As the Blackwell Flycatchers prepare to take the field for their fourth season this summer, the organization is once again turning to the community for support — this time with two key needs aimed at sustaining and growing the program.

In addition to an ongoing call for host families to house players during the season, team officials are now seeking financial contributions to help secure reliable transportation for the team.

The Flycatchers, a semiprofessional baseball team, have become a point of pride for Blackwell, bringing together local fans and players in a competitive summer league environment. With the 2026 season scheduled to run from May 26 through July 26, preparations are already underway behind the scenes.

Previously, team representatives, including General Manager Cindy Hobaugh, asked residents to consider opening their homes to players throughout the season. Host families are asked to provide basic accommodations, such as a place to sleep — with air mattresses available if needed — along with access to household essentials like a kitchen, bathroom, and laundry facilities. Players are away for roughly half the season due to travel and typically return late on game nights.

Hobaugh noted that players are expected to follow team standards and respect household rules, adding that past host family arrangements have been overwhelmingly positive.

“These young men are working toward their goals of advancing in baseball, and they simply need a place to stay while they do so,” Hobaugh said in an earlier statement.

Now, the organization is also focusing on improving team logistics by working to acquire a dedicated team bus. According to team officials, consistent transportation would allow players to travel together to away games, strengthen team chemistry, and enhance the program’s ability to recruit future talent.

“Having a team bus would not only help us operate more efficiently, but it would also show prospective players that Blackwell stands behind its team,” the organization said in a recent statement.

Community members interested in supporting the effort can make contributions payable to the Blackwell Flycatcher Booster Club. Team officials emphasized that donations of any size will go directly toward the transportation goal and will have a lasting impact on the players and program.

Residents interested in becoming host families or learning more about supporting the team can contact Hobaugh at 580-363-9753.

With both housing and transportation needs ahead of the upcoming season, the Flycatchers are once again relying on the community that has helped sustain them through their first three years — hoping to build on that foundation as they continue to grow.