ABOUT ON DECK CIRCLE
Building Belonging Through Baseball
A nonprofit committed to making baseball and softball accessible, inclusive, and joyful for every child.
Mission
The mission of On Deck Circle (ODC) is to increase accessibility and involvement in baseball and softball for all youth through supportive programming that teaches transformative life skills.
We provide inclusive, high-quality methodologies to schools, community organizations, and programs in underserved communities. Our goal is to promote fun and fitness while reinforcing social and emotional wellness through teamwork, encouragement, and play.
Our Story
2019 — The Idea
A Need on the Field
Recognizing barriers that kept many kids from accessing baseball, the idea for a more inclusive, play-first approach was born.
2020 — The First Programs
Play for Everyone
Early pilot programs focused on fun, fast-paced gameplay that welcomed kids of all skill levels—no equipment or experience required.
2022 — Community Growth
Partnerships That Matter
ODC expanded through partnerships with schools and community organizations, bringing programming directly to underserved neighborhoods.
2024 — Building the Future
Belonging Through Baseball
With a growing team and proven curriculum, On Deck Circle continues to build pathways for kids to learn, play, and thrive together.
Testimonials
Rohan M. Arjun
Parent Participant
Our experience with the Six-Week Quick Ball Program, hosted in partnership between The On Deck Circle and Give and Go Athletics, was nothing short of extraordinary. My son participated in this program at the Athletic Recreation Center, a historic venue where Philadelphia baseball truly began with The Philadelphia Athletics' first amateur games.
The coaches were a remarkable group—positive, passionate, fair, patient, and deeply caring. Their strong baseball knowledge was evident in every drill and lesson, as they skillfully balanced teaching the fundamentals of the game with instilling important values such as teamwork, respect, and community service.
One of the most meaningful aspects of the program was how it connected participants to the history of the field itself. The children weren’t just learning baseball—they were learning about the legacy of the game and the significance of the space they were playing on, which created a deeper appreciation for the sport.
Beyond the skills and lessons, the program fostered a genuine sense of community. Through shared meals, community service activities, festive costume practices, ice cream outings, and countless joyful moments, players and families became one big extended family.
What made the experience especially powerful was the generational connection baseball created for our family. My son’s grandfather, who grew up in the neighborhood, was able to share stories of playing on that very field. Watching that connection unfold between generations was incredibly meaningful and reminded us why baseball holds such a special place in so many lives.
We are incredibly grateful to The On Deck Circle and Give and Go Athletics for creating an experience that will stay with our family for years to come. The program strengthened not only our son’s love for baseball, but also our family’s connection to the game and to each other.
Jim Murphy
Recreation Leader 2, Simpson Recreation Center
The program is very well researched, planned, and implemented. The kids learned the game as well as some important life skills all while having a great time.
The fast paced stations to keep the kids moving, learning and having fun is an excellent method. I have implemented it in other programs we run here at Simpson. Shannon's enthusiasm for the game is contagious. His positivity and passion gets the kids excited to play and learn the game.
The On Deck Circle is an excellent organization that puts the kids first. They teach sport and life skills in a fun and engaging way. Any organization who works with children would be better if they had On Deck Circle programming. Shannon brought a great program to Simpson recreation center and we look forward to working together in the future.
Andre Wright
In the fall of 2023, we partnered with Shannon and THE ON DECK CIRCLE to provide Quickball to kids ages 4 to 12. Quickball is the perfect game to introduce young kids to the game of baseball in a safe and fun way.
Co-Founder & CEO, Give and Go Athletics
The modified equipment allows the young people to learn the game of baseball without the fear of getting injured or getting hurt by the ball or being hit with a hard bat. It teaches hand-eye coordination, base running, and batting in a way that didn’t discourage them from playing if they don’t get things right their first time.
Moreover, the activities are led by knowledgeable coaches with the focus on making baseball fun and teaching the game the right way. Give and Go Athletics will continue to partner with THE ON DECK CIRCLE to use Quickball to introduce kids to baseball and develop their skills.
Meet Our Founder
Shannon Gumby
Shannon Gumby has dedicated his career to working with children through education and sport. He has been a middle school science teacher for over 25 years and has coached varsity baseball at the high school level.
Shannon’s professional background includes serving as Director of Baseball Operations for the Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation, owning Ambler Sports Academy, partnering in The Phield House, and co-owning USA Quickball. He also worked as a Quickball consultant and trainer for EL1 Sports.
Driven by a passion for youth development and equity in sports, Shannon founded On Deck Circle to make baseball more inclusive, accessible, and joyful for all children—regardless of background or experience.
Founder, On Deck Circle
Be Part of the Circle
Whether you’re a parent, educator, community leader, or supporter, there are many ways to get involved with On Deck Circle and help expand access to youth baseball.