The Pittsburgh Pirates and Koppers, a global leader in treated wood products and wood preservation technologies, collaborated this week on an exciting partnership project to enhance Pittsburgh area youth baseball fields and dugouts. The two organizations unveiled six newly renovated community dugouts at a local field in a special dedication ceremony.

The renovations will provide a more inviting environment for young athletes and their families and underscore the Pirates¡¯ commitment to supporting youth baseball and softball.

¡°Koppers is thrilled to partner with the Pirates on this initiative,¡± said Koppers CEO Leroy Ball. ¡°I believe that every young player deserves access to safe and functional facilities like the ones that nurtured my love of baseball as a young player. I am proud that Koppers treated wood products will be part of giving back to the community by supporting young athletes in the region as they develop their own love for the game.

The dugout dedication event, which took place on Tuesday, October 15 at the Northside Athletics Complex in Brighton Heights, featured appearances from representatives of the Pirates, Koppers, Northside Athletics, as well as coaches and players who utilize these fields.

¡°Supporting youth baseball and softball programs has always been central to our mission in the community," noted Pirates President Travis Williams. " We are proud to partner with Koppers to improve the baseball experience for our local players. Renovating these dugouts with their quality products ensures that current and future young athletes have access to quality facilities.¡±

In November, the two organizations plan to continue their efforts by taking on a similar dugout renovation at the field at the Smock Volunteer Fire Department in Smock, PA.