how Portolite plays a role in this team’s Field of Dreams

David Smydo stepped up to the plate when he learned many kids in his community of Washington, Penn., couldn’t afford to play ball.

“I didn’t want the cost to inhibit anyone,” the successful businessman said. “There are some talented kids out there whose families can’t afford the cost of play. I’m privileged to be in a place to help, and that’s what I want to do.”

He launched the NightHawks, a baseball traveling team for player his son’s age – 10-to 11-year-olds – and pays for everything from uniforms to tournament expenses.

“Instead of $3,000 these families pay nothing,” he said. “That keeps the kids together, and it avoids the hassle of fundraising.”

Smydo also built the team their very own Field of Dreams on his 250-acre farm, so they always have an open airy place to practice.

And when looking for a quality pitching mound to help make players’ dreams come true, he turned to Portolite.

Why this dad and team owner chose Portolite

Smydo first heard about Portolite from his wife, who saw an Instagram ad.

He purchased the 6" one-piece game mound that gets constant use during practice and play.

These mounds are designed for players ages 8-13 – perfect for Little League play.

They weigh just 120 pounds, making them easy to move throughout play or to move to a storage shed when play is done.

Mounds come in a variety of turf colors and have a unique wear pad, strategically positioned right in front of the pitching rubber.

Tapered edges make for a smooth transition, and our mounds give an authentic feel of a regulation game mound.

“The boys love it,” Smydo said. “The radius is perfect for doing pick offs, and the mound is large enough for them to move around. They can spin, move, and not fall off. The length of it allows them to take a full stride.”

He appreciates the ease of taking care of the mounds, which can simply be hosed off after play.

“When you get to classic dirt mounds, you have to maintain them, and you worry about injury. You have much less flexibility with what to do with them.”

“We can put this mound on our field and move it around. It can be 46 or 50 feet out for younger players, or 60 feet out for 13-year-olds. We really wanted something we could adjust as they get bigger.”

The team tried out other portable mounds, but none came close to the quality and usability of Portolite, Smydo said.

“The kids’ cleats would slip in them, and they were heavy and awkward to move,” he said. “Portolite mounds are light weight and super portable. You can leave them out in the rain and they hold up.”

As an entrepreneur, Smydo appreciates Portolite is family-owned and operated.

“Customer service is fantastic,” he said. “You get what you pay for, and Portolite is worth every penny.”

Want to join the fun? Learn more at portolite.com.