On Sunday, July 15, smiles were abundant at James Park as the first Evanston Baseball & Softball Association (EBSA) Buddy BasebALL game got underway. Six players with special needs were paired with a volunteer from the EBSA 14A Travel team as they pitched, batted and fielded a great game. In addition, 14A travel players served as base coaches, umpire and supportive fans. The entire EBSA management team would like to extend a special thank you to the Sorensen family, Coach Charlie Prieto, Coach Norm Werd, and the entire 14A Travel team.

Additional players with special needs are welcome and encouraged to attend the second game, Sunday, July 22nd at 5pm on James Park Field 3. The EBSA Buddy BasebALL league does not charge any fees to participate, and tee shirts and ball caps will be provided for all players.  Each player with special needs will be paired with an Evanston travel baseball player from EBSA’s 14U travel league, comprised of 14 year old players. The target age group for individuals with special needs is between 5 and 20 years old.

Buddy BasebALL is a nationwide program with a simple goal: to bring youth baseball to ALL players. In just one game it was easy to see that Buddy BaseBALL is far more than just a sporting event. Each game provides a meaningful experience that resonates with all participants. Buddy BasebALL helps promote teamwork and self-esteem, and most of all it’s fun for players and buddies alike!

Please see www.evanstonbaseball.com  if you know any players with special needs that are interested; or if you have any questions.

EBSA has been operating in Evanston for over 60 years and is the largest non-profit youth sports organization in Evanston and is run entirely by volunteers.  Each year EBSA serves over 1,400 boys and girls ages 5-14 in youth baseball and softball programs.