By Gina Holt
Enquirer contributor

FLORENCE - "Play ball!"

That's what Florence Mayor Diane Whalen said when she heard construction was moving along at Tom Gill Chevrolet Stadium, home of the future Frontier League baseball team.

Gary Enzweiler, owner of Northern Kentucky Professional Baseball, announced at Monday's council meeting that the official groundbreaking ceremony for the $5.5 million, 4,000-seat stadium would be at 10 a.m. Feb. 11. The ballpark is being built at the former Fantasy Frontier near Interstate 75 and U.S. 42.

"It's been a long time coming," said Whalen. "Lets get it done and play ball."

The name of the team, a secret except for the hint that it will be "patriotic" and named through a "Name the Team" contest, will be announced at the official groundbreaking.

Although construction will not be complete, the first home game will be played June 3.

The first tryout camp for potential players will be from 6 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. March 1, and 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. on March 2 at the Champions Baseball Academy in Blue Ash. Cost is $50 per participant; the public can watch for free.

Enzweiler said some of the spots are already filled but wouldn't reveal their names. Chris Sabo, the coach and former Reds third baseman, has already recruited for the team.

Call Jeff Hollis, general manager of Northern Kentucky Professional Baseball, at (859) 830-9610 for information about tryouts or game tickets.