Just a year ago, the Natchez-Adams Girls Softball League was looking for enough money to raise nets above their complex behind Natchez High School.

After a successful year of fundraising, the nets have arrived. Yet, the efforts to improve the complex haven’t stopped.

League president Bridget Wactor, her husband Tommy and a handful of board members spend Saturday afternoon painting, pressure washing and cleaning the fields to ensure they are ready for this season’s play.

“We were so happy to raise this money, and to have these nets is a real big relief,” Wactor said. “Hopefully, they will go up soon.”

Though the nets have yet to be hung, Wactor said the league was able to purchase them after raising about $4,200 at a fish fry fundraiser that was held last April.

The league is scheduled to hold another fish fry on April 26 the week following its opening ceremonies on April 20.

In the mean time, board member Tommy Greene has spearheaded efforts to raise money for other renovations including replacing wood planks on bleachers and buying materials for a new batting cage.

As a local of Natchez who grew up playing in youth leagues, Greene has seen the impact it can have on the players.

“We are just trying to get as many kids involved,” he said.

Greene’s motivation, though widespread, has come from one main source.

“My daughter is pretty shy, but as soon as she came out here she had all these friends, and she was loving it,” he said. “It was such a drastic change that it really, really motivated me. I want that for other kids.”

In addition to coaching his daughter’s team this season, Greene has also been organizing the means to hold a free camp each Saturday during the season to help improve the athletes’ skills.

“I’ve gotten some high schoolers that have agreed to show the kids the basics and fundamentals,” he said. “A lot of us parents are out there trying to help these kids, but it’s hard. I don’t know anything about pitching. The best thing I could do is reach out. Hopefully we can build on the volunteers.”

Greene said money raised for current renovation has come mostly from local businesses.

“We are hoping to continue to build,” he said.

Anyone interesting in donating or volunteering the this year league or Greene’s nonprofit youth organization may visit www.msyouthsports.org or email Greene at tommy@msyouthsportspi.org