7th inning stretch before the first day of school

Clay Central/Everly Mavericks came together for a free back-to-school grill-out game in Royal on Aug. 22 to usher in the new school year and thank the public for their support.

The event was a "home run" with a lunchroom and gym full of families, community members and Maverick friends.

The evening started in the lunchroom with everyone enjoying relief from the heat and a delicious meal of grilled hot dogs cooked by Royal Mayor Josh Toft. Children were given their gift from the CC/E Pop Can Committee of brand new "Maverick Minor League" jerseys.

After a welcome greeting by the school, guests we...