E.M. Henry Park has changed a lot from the time that Royce Rogers began helping around the park with field maintenance and as a coach in the baseball program nine years ago.

The complex has experienced several renovations over the years that have transformed the facility from an open field to a centerpiece in the West End community.

“When I got here, they hadn’t had a baseball program in about 10 years,” Rogers said. “In the past nine years, we have signed about 80 to 100 kids to the program.”

Since the revival of the baseball program, E.M. Henry has produced 15 state champions and five World Series titles.

The success of baseball in the past decade has helped fuel interest in the park as well as upgrades during that time.

“There has been quite a bit of change since then,” Rogers said. “It has grown a step at a time, by getting the concession stand first followed by the pavilion and the playground equipment.”

Once an open field, the park now includes walking trails, a playground, concession stand, baseball and softball fields, basketball courts and a swimming pool.

According to Rogers, eight teams–four boys and four girls–represent the park in baseball and softball competition throughout the area.

Rogers coached the team that won the State Championship in 2011. That team holds a special place in his heart, as his son was a member of that team.

“The whole purpose of the program was not so much about baseball, as it was about keeping kids busy over the summertime,” Rogers said. “We’ve been pretty successful.”

According to Rogers, the park’s proximity to the nearby neighborhoods allows for great fan support during games.

“The great thing about this community is that most people can walk to the park from around the area,” Rogers said.

Over the years, E.M. Henry has developed a model of using sports as an avenue to create opportunities for kids and a sense of pride within the West End community.

“Sports brings about discipline and being able to follow basic rules,” Rogers said. “It means a whole lot because for most of these kids, traveling to state tournaments and championships is their summer vacation.”

Rogers credits the city of Clanton and the dedication that Mayor Billy Joe Driver and City Council members have shown toward the park.

“They have put a lot of money into the youth of Clanton,” Rogers said. “After traveling around and hearing how other cities complain, I applaud that.”

In recent years, lights have been added to the playing fields along with a new outfield fences.

“Winning is contagious, and that success really rubs off to provide motivation,” Rogers said.