The Rocket City Trash Pandas have launched a new youth scholarship initiative aimed at helping more children across North Alabama participate in organized baseball and softball.
The program, called Trash Pandas Rookies, is being introduced through the Rocket City Trash Pandas Foundation and is designed to provide financial assistance to families of Little League-age athletes who may face barriers to playing the sport.
The scholarship program is open to children ages 7 to 12 at the time of registration and reflects the organization’s broader mission of making baseball accessible while strengthening connections throughout the community.
“Our goal has always been to make baseball accessible and meaningful for families throughout our region,” said Mareca Watson, vice president of community, client and guest relations for the Rocket City Trash Pandas. “Trash Pandas Rookies allows us to remove obstacles, invest in young athletes, and help create those first, unforgettable moments that can spark a lifelong love for the game.”
Applicants must live within 60 miles of Toyota Field and reside in one of the following counties: Madison, Morgan, Lauderdale, Jackson, Marshall, Limestone, Colbert, Lawrence, Lincoln, Franklin or Cullman. Applications are open to eligible youth through Feb. 28, 2026.
Scholarships will be awarded on a limited basis, and submission of an application does not guarantee participation. Selected families will be contacted directly by a Trash Pandas representative with additional details.
Registration information for Trash Pandas Rookies is available online.
The Trash Pandas Foundation is the nonprofit charitable arm of the Rocket City organization and supports community outreach efforts throughout North Alabama. The foundation focuses on initiatives that promote healthy lifestyles through sport and create positive community impact.
The Rocket City Trash Pandas, the Double-A affiliate of the Los Angeles Angels, will open their sixth season at Toyota Field on April 3 against the Biloxi Shuckers. More information on upcoming events and the 2026 season is available at trashpandasbaseball.com.
