Players line up and await the National Anthem.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

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ACES - An Opportunity of a Lifetime

August 3, 2013
By: John Keuvelaar

Tuesday kicked off the ACES baseball season. This is a two week program consisting of five games for those players who might not otherwise have a chance to play. Comfortable temperatures and energetic smiles made for a great day at the ball park.

For these players, this is more than just a game of ball. This is a lifetime opportunity to play a game they watch with great interest and yearn to play.

Jacob has been playing ACES softball for ten years. While he may never know the feeling of digging in the batters box and staring down the pitcher, he does know the thrill of playing the game. "Once he gets to the game he really looks forward to it," said his father, Gordon. "He really loves the National Anthem and the kids running around." As for Gordon, "I do look forward to it. I like seeing the kids and the changes with them." Mother Candice clearly agreed given the smile in her eyes.

Lauren is another veteran who has played and enjoyed ACES for the last 9 years. "She gets very excited about playing," noted her mother Gretchen. Something you can easily see by her big smile and anxiousness to get out onto the field. "I always look forward to it and seeing her classmates here."

And talk about courage, Lauren wasn't content to stay in her wheelchair. With the help of her mom and a walker, she rose, hit the ball and ran down the first base line. Eventually she scored touching home plate for a run.

But the ACES games are not just for parents and child, they are a family event. Lauren's sisters, Grace and Anna, volunteer at all these events. (Lauren also participates in Camp Greener Pastures and Camp Meadows , both YWCA camps). "We look forward to seeing the players and our friends come and cheer."

Branden is a big time baseball fan. He watches 8 games at once thanks to Direct TV and even caught a Tiger game recently to watch his favorite player, Miguel Cabrera. But today was his day to shine as he got to play the game he so passionately knows and loves.

And for Jayden, this was a dream come true: to play baseball. Jayden is a first timer according to his cousin and helper, Kali. Since Jayden was too excited to play to talk to me, Kali let me know that "(He) really loves baseball and is really excited to play. One of his dreams is to play baseball and today, he is fulfilling his dream."

Today, there are 21 such stories as above all with their special moments. But for today, it is there time to shine in the sun and shine they did. Games continue Thursday, August 1, and continue through next week, August 6, 8 and 10. All games start at 6pm at the Northeast Little League field with Saturday's game starting at 9am. Come join the fun, eat a hot dog or two and help these athletes shine. Below are more ACES athletes pictures. Enjoy their sunshine.