Popular Sporting Goods Store Is Closing 2 Capital Region Locations

In the ever-changing world of retail, two more Capital Region brick-and-mortar stores are closing up shop.

When I think back to being and kid, sports were such a big part of my youth. I wasn't always the best athlete but like any kid, it was mostly about the love of the game and having fun with friends.

One of the best parts about getting to play sports was getting that first baseball glove and bat, or that first basketball, and then putting them to use playing the games we loved.

Typically any business shutting down in the Capital Region is not good news, but I think the nostalgia side of this one struck me a bit too.

I wonder how many first baseball mitts and memories were made at two local sporting goods stores that are closing up shop? Before the internet, going in person with mom or dad to try out whatever equipment you needed was an annual pre-season tradition for any sport when you were a kid.

Olympia Sports To Close 2 Remaining Capital Region Locations

According to Boston 25 News, Maine-based Olympia Sports is closing its remaining 35 stores. The sports retail chain once operated over 200 stores on the East Coast. The last remaining locations include the Olympia Sports stores located at The Shoppes at Greenbush Commons in Rensselaer and one on North Comrie Avenue in Johnstown.  Olympia has an "Everything Must Go Closing Sale" message splashed across its website. The Boston 25 report had no official date when the stores would close for good.

I imagine there were countless dreams of pro-sports stardom, while fleeting and rare to come true for many, that were born out of a simple trip to both of these stores. So maybe before Olympia closes, they will help one last mom or dad with that memory of getting that first bat and glove for their child.