Former Kennesaw Mt High Baseball Standout and MiLB Pro, Ivan Johnson, to Host Free Baseball Clinic

The Roots to Home Project, a mission-driven baseball initiative founded by professional athletes Ivan Johnson and Rece Hinds, will host its inaugural Roots to Home Baseball Clinics THIS Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Gresham Park in Atlanta, Georgia.

The one-day event – November 15 at Gresham Park -- will feature two specialized sessions:

• Date/Location: Saturday, November 15, 2025; Gresham Park, DeKalb County Parks & Recreation
• Physical Address: 2466 Bouldercrest Road SE, Gresham Park, GA 30316

• Rising Stars Clinic (Ages 10–14): 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
• Top Prospects Clinic (Ages 15–18): 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Dedicated to giving back to the communities that raised them, Johnson and Hinds created Roots to Home to provide free, high-quality baseball instruction along with life skills coaching, mentorship, and college preparation for young athletes—particularly those from underserved areas. The program’s goal is to equip participants with tools for success both on the field and beyond the diamond. Each clinic will include professional-level baseball training in hitting, fielding, base running, and baseball IQ, as well as mentorship and guidance on character development, teamwork, and preparation for higher levels of play. (Learn more about the project here: About | Roots to Home Youth Baseball )

Parents are also invited to attend a special information session led by Becky Abernathy of Devine Baseball, titled “Playing Baseball in College and Beyond.” This 30-minute session will cover essential topics such as scholarship and roster realities, academic priorities, the college recruiting process, and how young athletes can stand out to coaches. The parents will also hear from Professional Athlete and Teammate Michael Trautwein, from the Will to Live Foundation, about keeping the mental game right through the climb.

More than 120 athletes will participate in the event this weekend; a few slots still remain – learn more at: rootstohome.org.

The Roots to Home Project is made possible through the generous support of its presenting sponsors and community partners, including the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation, MLBPA Players Trust, Cincinnati Reds, Franklin Sports, Northside Hospital, Signature FD, Keilah Barikos Charity Fund, The Hand & Upper Extremity Center of Georgia – Dr. Lourie, Henri’s Bakery and Deli, Prep Baseball Georgia, Atlanta Falcons, Atlanta Hawks, Chick-fil-A Glenwood Place | Chick-fil-A Ponce & Boulevard, Publix, DeKalb County Parks and Recreation, Niagara Water, Good Game Foundation, Adidas, Mizuno, Georgia Power and Bruce Bolt. Their commitment helps ensure that every young athlete has access to opportunity, mentorship, and the life-changing lessons baseball can teach.

About the Roots to Home Project

Founded by professional baseball players Ivan Johnson and Rece Hinds, the Roots to Home Project connects professional athletes with youth in their communities through baseball. Its mission is to inspire and equip young people with the confidence, skills, and guidance to succeed in baseball, and in life off the field.