Orange Beach Honors Longtime Coach David McLain at During Opening Day Celebrations

R. Ken Cooper • March 28, 2025

Mayor Kennon and City Council Surprise Coach McLain with Field Dedication

Orange Beach Honors Longtime Coach David McLain at During Opening Day Celebrations

Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – The City of Orange Beach kicked off its 2025 Baseball and Softball Season with a heartfelt tribute to longtime volunteer coach, David McLain. During the opening ceremony, Mayor Tony Kennon and the City Council surprised Coach McLain by dedicating Field 5 in his honor. Unaware of the plan, McLain read aloud the plaque's inscription at the center of Field 5, realizing the field now bears his name. He then threw the ceremonial first pitch, marking the official start of the season.

Expressing his appreciation, Coach McLain shared on Facebook, "I am very thankful and very blessed for this honor. Thanks to the many players, coaches, parents, my family, and the City of Orange Beach for this dedication. I'm so grateful for all the support and love from this community. Thanks again and Go Makos!"

The Orange Beach High School girls' softball team has achieved remarkable success, securing four consecutive Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) state championships from 2021 to 2024. In 2024, they achieved a 46-1 record and were named the MaxPreps National Champions, becoming the first Alabama school to receive this honor. This national title is based on rankings by MaxPreps, a division of CBS Sports that monitors high school teams nationwide.

This year, the league comprises 25 teams with 265 players ranging from Tiny T-ball to 12U divisions. The opening ceremony began with an invocation by Rob Jones, Youth Minister at Orange Beach Methodist Church, followed by Rhonda Hart's rendition of the national anthem.

The city extends its gratitude to the dedicated Sportsplex crew, including Parks & Recreation Director Nicole Ard, Sportsplex Director Scott Stacy, Athletic Coordinator John McIntosh—who served as the event's MC—and Recreation Team Leaders Collin Martin, Duane Kroeker, Hunter Peters, and Jeremy Jones. The Sportsplex Grounds Crew, consisting of Derrick Barlow, Dylan Rodi, Hayden Ware, Chandler Dick, and William Croy, also received special thanks for their efforts.

As the season unfolds, the community looks forward to an exciting and rewarding experience for all players and coaches involved.

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