There were plenty of hugs to go around during a day of softball.

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Players Hold All The ACES at Softball Showcase

Smiles Are Everywhere During Softball Event Held at NE Little League

July 31, 2010       Leave a Comment
By: John Keuvelaar

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On Tuesday night, loud cheers could be heard from the Northeast Little League field for a very special game. The game, as part of a five game season, affords disabled children the chance to participate in and enjoy a softball game. While county and state titles are not on the line, for these children being on the field and playing softball is clearly the prize. Judging by the amount of effort these athletes put forward and the width of their smiles, a great time was had by all.

The softball league is part of ACES which stands for All Children Experience Sports. This is a program started and run by the Disabled Services Resource Center which is conveniently located across the street from the NELL fields. The program affords an opportunity for disabled people to participate fully in sports regardless of their personal limitations and/or ability.

Jan Miner, board member of DSRC noted: "This is an excellent opportunity for children with disabilities to participate in America's favorite pastime." Adding to the experience is that the children get to play on the fantastic facilities of the NELL including an open concession stand and player announcements. Johnny Burke, radio personality of WHNN threw out the first pitch. Miner further pointed out that "We have enjoyed a wonderful relationship with NELL in hosting our event which they have done so since we started in 2002."

Besides the generous support of the Northeast Little League in hosting this league, financial contributors like Omni Source, Green Hut Charities and the local Optimist Club have all made it possible for these young athletes to enjoy one of the rights of summer, playing ball.

The ACES softball league begins the last part of July through the first week of August. Each athlete is assigned a buddy who assists the athlete with their participation. Everyone plays the field, bats and runs, walks or wheels the bases. Watching the laughter and smiles, it is hard to say who is having more fun. Interested athletes must register at the DSRC before the season begins. Just call Donna, the Activities Awareness Coordinator, at 399-7509.

Besides softball, ACES offers a bowling league the starts in September and plays through April. One call to Donna will get you more information.

Whether you have someone who would be interested in playing next year or you just want to enjoy an evening of heart warming fun, stop by the Northeast Little League fields at Trumbull and Woodside for one of the remaining games. Tuesday and Thursday games (Aug. 2 & 4) start at 6pm with Saturday's final game beginning at 9pm. And while you are there, grab a hotdog and a cold drink and cheer on those incredible athletes.

Organizers Donna and Donald keep things moving smoothly.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

Board member Jan Miner shares instructions while Johnny Burke takes a cool drink.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

Nothing like a good game of catch to warm up before the game.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

Getting ready to handle the opening game pitcher.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

Half the fun was the outfield warm ups as this fielder fires one underhand.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

The Fighting ACES softball team.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

The Fighting ACES and their "buddies".
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

Johnny Burke of WHNN delivers the first pitch.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

Catching Johnny Burke's opening pitch was quite a delight.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

Legging out a single.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

And he drives a high hard one.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

After making a nice play, she throws the runner out at first.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

He connects showing some good left handed power.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

A good crowd was on hand for this opening game.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

It's hard to tell who is having more fun, the player or her buddy.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

A nice swing at the fastball.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

Laughing at the pitcher always gets them.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

She beats the tag to score.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

Father and son share a good time while playing third base.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)



Nice throw and form as she guns the ball to first base.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

She drives one down the line.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

He blasts this pitch deep to left field to bring in more runs.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

There is nothing like scoring on a friends big hit.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

Nothing like sharing the game with your "favorite buddy".
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

Plenty of special moments to go around.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

She connects on this pitch for a big hit.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

Teammates hustle off the field for their at-bats.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

He sets his feet before fielding the ball.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

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John Keuvelaar
John Keuvelaar is a college student at Midwest Photography Workshops and Delta College. More from John Keuvelaar

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