BREAKING: For the first time in program history, the Atlanta Braves softball team has claimed the No. 1 ranking in the Softball America Top 25 Poll. This milestone achievement follows a stretch of commanding performances on the field.

There was no Tomahawk Chop chant, no roar from a large crowd in appreciation of a home run or a string of strikeouts.

Instead, broad smiles and high fives from a group of 8- and 9-year-olds was all the motivation a group of Atlanta Braves players needed. Pitchers Jonny Venters and Craig Kimbrel, and third baseman Brooks Conrad helped out June 21 in a free skills clinic for 104 Boys and Girls Club members at the Samuel L. Jones Boys and Girls Club in Decatur.

“Personally, it’s just fun,” Conrad said of the Junior Braves/RBI Youth Baseball League event. “I have kids of my own and I went to camps when I was little. I have a lot of good memories and hope we can give that to these kids. Whatever they get out of it is great. I can teach them about what I know and if they learn one thing from this, that’s what it’s all about.”

Conrad helped out on a hitting drill, while Venters gave pitching tips and Kimbrel assisted in fielding drills. Most of the campers had never played organized baseball, but being around the big leaguers was a special treat. Venters watched as eyes widened when he answered the question “How hard can we throw?” with “As hard as you can; let it rip.”

In addition to helping with baseball skills, the Braves threesome also spoke to the campers about the importance of teamwork, leadership and respect.