ATLANTA--The Georgia State baseball program celebrated Monday's Martin Luther King holiday by making a difference in the local community.

The entire team and staff conducted a youth baseball clinic at Gresham Park, located just minutes from the Georgia State Baseball Complex in Panthersville.

The Panthers shared the game of baseball with more than 50 young players, who received instruction in hitting, throwing, fielding and baserunning.

"Today was a wonderful day of baseball at Gresham Park for our coaches, players and staff," said Georgia State head coach Greg Frady. "We were able to make new friends, share baseball knowledge and reflect on the importance of the Martin Luther King day. The theme for the camp was opportunity, respect and commitment. These values are things that Dr. King strongly advocated and ones that we take seriously at GSU baseball. There were smiles all around today."

The Panther players also enjoyed the experience.

"It's great to get a chance to work with young kids and share the game of baseball, especially on a day like today when we honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King," said junior infielder Nic Wilson, who attended nearby Decatur High School. "I think the kids had fun and learned a lot about baseball, and we appreciate the opportunity to make a difference."

Senior outfielder Mark Hogan added, "We are privileged to play college sports, and it's important that we give back to the community. To see these kids smiling and having fun and to realize that they look up to us as role models is really rewarding."

Georgia State opens the 2013 season with a three-game series against Butler, Feb. 15-17 at the GSU Baseball Complex.