Jhonny Urrea

Background & Experience

Jhonny Urrea has been leading the softball and baseball program in El Peñol since 2008, starting at a school in the rural area of Palmira. The program has grown significantly, reaching an average of 250 students each year through the school’s sports initiation center. When Project Béisbol learned about the program, they immediately offered support with equipment and guidance. One of the most inspiring moments for Jhonny and the participants was meeting Major League Baseball players in Medellín and the visit of Project Beisbol’s president, Justin, which gave the athletes a sense of backing and encouragement. For many girls, it also opened the opportunity to visit the United States. Baseball holds great significance for the community, especially as it provides a way to improve the social conditions in a rural area with cold lands, where the sport becomes more meaningful. Jhonny’s passion for baseball stems from his father, who introduced the sport in the old town of Peñol and promoted it throughout his life as an educator. The program initially started with a project funded by Prodepaz, which allowed them to purchase basic equipment. Today, thanks to the support from Carlos Vega, the Fundación Campo de Sueños, and Project Beisbol, the program continues to thrive. The primary goal of the program is to develop well-rounded athletes through sports, positively impacting society and the surrounding community while nurturing personal talents to help students build their life projects.