Monday, May 15, 2017
Children with special needs will enjoy a fun and action-packed day at the ballpark thanks to Beaumont Children’s, United Shore Professional Baseball League and Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Beaumont pediatric patients will participate in a baseball clinic and modified sports activities Saturday, May 20 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Jimmy John’s Field in Utica.
Participating children will work with USPBL coaches and players to learn and practice a range of baseball skills, including batting, pitching and running the bases. Some children will also be paired with siblings to help them participate in the day’s activities.
“We are deeply committed to the children and families in our community. This event gives children a chance to have a wonderful time and forget about the illnesses or disabilities that challenge them every day,” said Brian Berman, M.D., pediatrician-in-chief of Beaumont Children’s.
Many children participating in the event work with therapists at Beaumont’s newest Children’s Rehabilitation Services center in Macomb Township.
Later in the afternoon, pediatric patients will play a game of adaptive whiffle ball or bean bag toss. The experience will also allow participants to practice athletic, social and team-building skills.
USPBL team mascots, “Lancelot” the Unicorn, “Buzz” the Beaver, “Ribbi” the Frog, “Wooly” the Wooly Mammoth, and Beau the Bear from Beaumont Children’s will cheer on the children. Every participating child will receive a Beaumont Children’s T-shirt, a USPBL team baseball cap and a special medal.
“Our league is all about family fun, community engagement and great baseball. We’re thrilled to partner with Beaumont Children’s and Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals to give these kids a chance to make memories with our professional athletes,” said Andy Appleby, CEO and Founder, USPBL.
Children's Miracle Network Hospitals raise more than $4 million to support local Beaumont Children's patients every year in Southeast Michigan. This ballpark event is sponsored by Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.
Reporters are invited to cover one or both segments of this event:
- 10 to 11:15 a.m. | Baseball clinic with players and coaches
- 12:40 to 1:40 p.m. | Adaptive sports (For children who require more assistance than the 10 a.m. group)