Since spring 2020, thanks to the generous support from the CTBC Anti-Drug Educational Foundation, the baseball field at Payne Elementary School in Washington, D.C., has been alive with energy, teamwork, and the unmistakable sound of bats cracking and kids cheering. Serving students in grades 2–5, Payne’s twice-a-week, 10-week baseball program has quickly become one of the most popular extracurricular activities at the school. So much so that there’s always a waiting list to join. And, the history of the DEAEF’s work at Payne Elementary goes back even further! Payne Elementary hosted the very first DEAEF Youth Dance Program nationwide in 2012! The Foundation is thrilled to continue the partnership through the baseball program. 

At the heart of this program is Coach Julian, whose love for the game is infectious. A lifelong baseball player, Julian grew up in northern New Jersey before heading to Washington, D.C., to attend Howard University, where he studied Political Science. When Howard discontinued its collegiate baseball program, Julian refused to let that be the end of his playing days. He founded Howard’s Club Baseball team, keeping the sport alive for students who shared his passion. Since graduating, he has been coaching at the Washington Nationals Youth Baseball Academy in Southeast D.C. In fall 2024, DEA Educational Foundation Regional Manager of Baseball and Sports, Peter Harbolick, brought Julian to Payne Elementary to lead this thriving program.

Julian says coaching kids at Payne is one of the most rewarding parts of his week. “Seeing their faces light up when they make a great play or learn something new is what keeps me coming back,” he shares. “Baseball taught me discipline, teamwork, and resilience and now I get to pass those lessons on.”

The impact of the program is clear. “We love working with Payne!” says Harbolick. “They always welcome us back are great at filling our roster and communication.”

The students agree. Their excitement is evident each week as they take to the field, ready to learn new skills, play with their friends, and connect with a positive role model in Coach Julian. The program consistently fills to capacity, a testament to both the kids’ enthusiasm and the strong relationship between the school and the coaching staff.

Payne Elementary’s baseball program is more than just after-school fun. It’s a place where kids build confidence, practice teamwork, and fall in love with America’s pastime. Thanks to dedicated leaders like Coach Julian and Peter Harbolick, the game of baseball is alive and well for the next generation of players.