Riley and his teammates were all smiles on the diamond.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)
ACES Warms Your Heart
August 2, 2014
By: John Keuvelaar
Late July means more than festivals, BBQs and weekends at the lake. It means ACES time (All Children Experience Sports). A time when these great kids get to enjoy a fun game of baseball on a well groomed little league field. Just as important, it means family and friends get to enjoy a hotdog, a laugh and
a smile watching their favorite ball players so thoroughly enjoy themselves. And to say the kids have fun is really an understatement.
Caleb connects on a big hit.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)
Owen talks things over with teammates with Michael and Danielle.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)
Coach Cindy works on Jimmy's foot work.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)
ACES is a program put on by the good folks at Disability Sources Resource Center. Partnered with the support of the Northeast Little League, a full concession stand helps make this a special event every year.
Taylor gives and receives a well earned hug. Moments like these makes the day so special.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)
Jesse taunts the pitcher with his laugh and skill.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)
Emma shows such determination typical of the effort these kids show.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)
On this night, some twenty plus players showed off their capacity for fun and love as they encouraged on each other and reveled in each other's moments. For me, the thrill of the night was watching one player walk down the base path- a feat I thought I would never see. When we talk about superstars and heroes, the field was full of them with the players and parents alike.
Never has a bigger run been scored than Riley's.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)
Lauren always puts a smile on your face with her laugh and courage.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)
Emma fires the ball in from the outfield.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)
On this day, Ms. Bay County, Mallory Rivard, handled the first pitch duties. But she wasn't there for the ceremony. She was a player coach helping her player enjoy the evening. Ms Rivard, like so many others there, is a regular volunteer at this and other Special Olympic events.
To view more photos, go to www.koovsphotography.smugmug.com. Proceeds of sales to go to DSRC.
Ms Bay County Mallory Rivard throws out the first pitch.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)
Bryce makes it look easy.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)
Taylor runs down the first base line with her Coach, Mallory Rivard.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)
But this night belongs to these great kids with all their smiles, strenghts and courage. Come join the fun as they have three more games, Tuesday August 5, Thursday August 7 and Saturday August 9.
Danielle crushes one.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)
Michael receives congratulations after bombing one to the fence.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)
Moms and Dads enjoy the lighter moment as they soak in the accomplishments of the major leaguers.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)
