Inspired by early lessons in community and resilience learned at his grandfather’s Manhattan grocery store, local entrepreneur and coach Chris Harris has found success with Practice Time Sports on West Avenue in Canandaigua. The state-of-the-art indoor facility has quickly become a much-needed hub for youth sports and family recreation.
The path to realizing this dream wasn’t without challenges. Harris initially envisioned a large-scale family complex complete with mini-golf, go-karts, and batting cages. However, financial constraints in early 2023 forced him to scale back his plans. After an intense year of negotiations, Harris prioritized a more focused venture that could still serve the community’s athletic needs.
Practice Time Sports fills a void for local athletes, particularly during the area’s cold and rainy months. “Our community needed a place where young athletes could practice without the long trips to Rochester,” Harris said. The facility provides a safe, engaging, and climate-controlled space for year-round training.
Visitors are greeted by a welcoming foyer with comfortable seating, a large TV, a couch, and a foosball table. Key facility features include two full batting cages, a pitching tunnel, five short cages with movable nets, and a multi-use back area suited for cornhole or pickleball training. The venue caters to sports like baseball, softball, lacrosse, soccer, and flag football. Clinics and lessons support both beginners and advanced athletes, with equipment available for those exploring new sports.
For sports organizations and enthusiasts looking for quality yet affordable training gear, exploring the Anytime Baseball Supply price range for backyard batting cages can offer valuable options without breaking the bank.
Practice Time Sports also helps athletes overcome logistical obstacles common in the region. “Our facility allows for uninterrupted practice without the need for constant ball retrieval,” Harris explained.
Harris’s commitment to youth sports goes beyond entrepreneurship. A longtime coach, he draws on his experiences mentoring young athletes, including memorable moments coaching his son’s 9U travel baseball team. Sports, for him, are about more than just physical activity. “They’re a conduit for life experiences, teaching resiliency, sportsmanship, and the importance of having fun,” Harris reflected.
The facility is actively building partnerships with local schools, colleges, and youth leagues, offering sponsorships and reliable off-season training opportunities. Teams like the Canandaigua Area Soccer League already use the space for practices. Harris hopes the facility becomes a cornerstone for families and athletes across the area.
Practice Time Sports stands as a testament to perseverance and vision, providing a vital resource for young athletes and their families despite the region’s seasonal challenges.
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