By Balmina Sehra
USAG Stuttgart Public Affairs
U.S. Army Garrison Stuttgart Commander Col. Kirk Alexander threw the ceremonial first pitch at a baseball game last month, but he didn’t have to go all the way back to the United States to do it. Thanks to a partnership with the Stuttgart Reds, a local baseball league of both German and American players, students from Stuttgart High School were able to take part in a friendly game of baseball at the Stuttgart Reds’ home field, right across from Robinson Barracks.
The game sets the tone for a growing partnership between the Stuttgart Reds and USAG Stuttgart. With no regulation size baseball field at USAG Stuttgart, this partnership offers American service members and their families a chance to enjoy their favorite pastime while deepening ties with the local community.
“We’ve had some partnership already, but I want to elevate that,” Stuttgart Reds head coach Ryan Ford said.
Despite being just across the street from Robinson Barracks, Ford notes that many within the military community are unaware of the team’s presence.
“I sometimes meet people at the bus station who tell me they’ve been stationed here for three years and didn’t know we had a baseball team,” he said. “I want to change that.”
As a Texas native, Ford grew up with baseball and understands the emotional connection many Americans have with the sport.
“Stuttgart has a great sporting community, the number one female softball program in Germany and one of the highest professional levels in Europe,” Ford said. “We’ve got players here who could be future Olympians.”
Events like these not only foster stronger bonds between communities but also provide a taste of home for Americans living abroad.
“You don’t have to be a hardcore fan to enjoy baseball,” Ford said. “It’s a fun, family-friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re here for the game or just to hang out with friends, bring the kids and the dogs, it’s a safe and relaxed environment.”
Ford, who has over a decade of coaching experience and is serving overseas for the second time, is excited to expand community involvement with the Reds.
“We’d love to have more people involved,” Ford said. “Whether you’re a player, coach, or just want to help with concessions. We’ve got great cheeseburgers, a beer garden across the way, just come by and have a good time.”
Christopher Jackson, Stuttgart High School’s athletic director, added that understanding baseball isn’t a prerequisite to attending a baseball game so he hopes to see more people come to games.
“If you’ve never been to a baseball game, don’t worry,” he said. “Just come by and enjoy the atmosphere.”