Champions at bat

The Special Needs Ministry at Memorial Drive United Methodist Church (MDUMC) hosted its first Game Changers baseball event and game, giving kids with special needs a chance to shine on the diamond. Pictured is Teddy Wilson, who played in the game with friends as his family and fans cheered him on. Nineteen players, ages 4 to 13, were paired with one-on-one buddies and had a full ballpark experience. The kids enjoyed hitting, rounding the bases, and celebrating every play. More than 200 people turned out to cheer them on, including 50 volunteers who served as coaches, catchers, and sideline support. Every child was included and celebrated. Special Needs Ministry coordinators Rachael Walker and Lee Moffett went the extra mile with personalized walk-up songs, handmade signs, and trophies. The event will take place again in the fall.  

Editor’s note: Send your best high-resolution photos and behind-the-scenes stories about young local athletes, in both team and individual sports, to SportzBuzz, Jr. at [email protected]. Include all contact info, names, ages, grades and schools. Featured athletes must live in Buzz-circulation neighborhoods. Items will be published on a space-available basis.