Dream League is a dream come true for sports fans with special needs

  • By Kyle Valentini
  • June 25, 2012
  • 377
                        
Summary: Baseball is everyone’s favorite summer game. Whether you are watching, playing or coaching, memories that last a lifetime are created. The Barrs Mills Church of God invites individuals of all ages to participate in their Dream League which begins next month. The simple goal of providing individuals with special needs an opportunity to play baseball is all that is needed to motivate the Barrs Mills Church of God as they put together their second season of the Dream League. “Last summer was our first year of having Dream League at Barrs Mill Church of God,” said Pastor Kevin Martin. “Pastor Jan Murphy had seen similar types of ministry elsewhere and a flame sparked in her heart to bring that ministry to Barrs Mill Church of God. Dream League was such a blessing not only to the players playing, but also to our church and community. Dream League has found a home in the hearts of the congregation at Barrs Mill Church of God.” The crack of the bat, the dust of the field and the feel of a glove that becomes a player’s friend over time can all be experienced in the Dream League that is still accepting applications until July 1. For registration paperwork, go to http://www.Barrsmillchurch.org and click Ministries to open Dream League. Registration forms can be printed and mailed or simply stop by the church. The Dream League is open to individuals of all ages and there are no fees. All players will receive a numbered shirt and a hat. “Dream League makes everyone an all-star,” said Pastor Kevin. “We have a sound system setup to announce each player by name and number like they do in the major leagues. The players love it. We even gave out personalized baseball cards last year for each player.” “The first time playing we give each player a shirt with a number and a hat. So they will experience the excitement of having a uniform and meeting their team mates,” said Pastor Kevin “As they take their position at home plate and hear their number and name blasting out across the field joy will rush over them. And when they swing that bat and hit the ball the thrill of running the bases will set in. When they get around third base and see their team waiting at home plate for them the feeling of success will pull them in. Dream League will be a place of happiness and friendship for them, a place where they can just have fun.” “Dream League benefits the players by giving them all the wonderful experiences of baseball. There are no outs or even any strike outs, everyone gets a hit and everyone comes home where their team is waiting to congratulate them,” said Pastor Kevin. “Every player gets to play a position in the field to make that catch or to scoop up that grounder.” No score is kept in the three inning games because sometimes playing is more important than winning. In the Dream League players are paired up with a buddy who will assist them in becoming the best player they can be. “My personal thought is the community does an excellent job of providing places for education, crafts, and work for individuals with special needs,” said Pastor Kevin. “However maybe an area we are missing as a community is providing athletic activities where they can just come together experience the joys of sports.” Barrs Mill Church of God is located between Dundee and Sugarcreek, on state Route 93. Opening night for the Dream League is July 18, at 6:30 p.m. The Dream League plays for six weeks, and concludes with an awards banquet, where every player receives recognition for their hard work during the season. For those who can't play, they are welcome to come and cheer on the players. Contact Pastor Kevin Martin at kmartintern@gmail.com for more information about the Dream League and the Barrs Mills Church of God.


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