Ahwatukee Little League is gearing up for the 2026 season by launching a dynamic pre-season winter camp for players ages 7 to 12.

 

This two-day clinic, running December 29-30 at Mountain Vista Park, offers hands-on training led by Garvin Alston Jr., Mountain Pointe High School’s varsity baseball coach and league alum.

 

Alston, who spent years in collegiate and professional baseball, is passionate about inspiring local youth and building connections between little leaguers and older athletes.

 

The camp, capped at 100 participants for a personalized experience, is $125 per player and includes lunch donated by community sponsors.

 

New league chief commissioner Anthony Sisneroz is dedicated to fostering teamwork, mentorship, and pride in every young athlete.

 

Ahwatukee also invites families to celebrate at the upcoming First Friday Art Walk and weekly Farmers Market, underscoring its strong tradition of community engagement and youth development.

Conner Koester, a 17-year-old from Ahwatukee and a junior at Desert Vista High School, has been named the winner of the 'Doc for a Day' sweepstakes organized by Banner Health and the Phoenix Suns.

 

Chosen from among 446 applicants, Conner’s dedication to pursuing a career as an orthopedic surgeon stood out to judges from both organizations.

 

He and his family participated in a hands-on session with Suns team doctors, gaining firsthand knowledge about sports medicine careers and mentorship from industry professionals.

 

The Koester family also enjoyed VIP access to a Suns game, including courtside experiences and exclusive memorabilia.

 

Nicole Koester, Conner’s mother, expressed heartfelt gratitude for this opportunity and its lasting impact on her son’s ambitions.

 

In other recent Ahwatukee news, a local apartment fire displaced 16 residents, while Kyrene de la Sierra Elementary School’s roof repairs temporarily affected hundreds of students.

 

Conner’s journey highlights the strong community spirit and potential of Ahwatukee youth.