A special deed for special needs with Buddy Softball

On any given day in Amish Country, it is fairly normal to see young people out on the softball field, hammering line drives, making spectacular plays, laughing and having a ball playing the game they love.

For individuals with special needs, that hasn’t always been the case, but now the Holmes County Board of Developmental Disabilities is changing that with the creation of All-Star Buddy Softball, a new league designed specifically for individuals with special needs of all abilities.

“Our Superintendent Marianne Mader really wanted to create something for individuals with disabilities with the opportunity to play a sport that is really important and beloved in our area,” said Sharon Allison, who is coordinating the league. “Our goal has really focused on getting out into the community more for our individuals with special needs. It is inspiring that the board felt good about putting our resources into something we believe is going to be very special.”

There are many Buddy Softball leagues around the nation, and after doing plenty of research, Allison said they felt like they had created something worthwhile that would really fit nicely into the community and present individuals with special needs with a chance to experience the joy that comes with playing softball.

“We talked with parents, and they were telling us that individuals with disabilities were going to watch their brothers, sisters and cousins play, and they were very excited to hear about this opportunity,” Allison said. “They are excited this is for them. They’re excited about playing, for their jerseys with their names on the back, and their own special number and their own hat.”

All-Star Buddy Softball is a noncompetitive softball league for boys and girls age 8 and older with special needs.

Each player will be paired with a buddy who will assist the player as needed on the field and in the dugout. Each individual will bat in all three of the innings played. No strikes are called, no outs are maintained and every game ends in a tie, but one thing is certain: There will be loads of smiles and laughter, and chances are very good everyone in attendance will leave with a smile on their face and joy in their heart.

Allison said while some of the buddies will consist of members of the family or friends, they are on the lookout for anyone who would like to volunteer to serve as a buddy as a way of giving back to the community.

“We want everyone to know that we will have individuals with all types of abilities, and being a buddy might be pushing someone in a wheelchair or simply providing socialization,” Allison said. “It’s about helping these individuals to learn about getting along with others and connecting with community.”

The initial practice and meeting will take place Aug. 26 at 6 p.m. at the Holmes County Board of Developmental Disabilities Family Fun Night.

Three games will take place Sept. 17, 23 and 30 for the fall season, with games being played at Oasis Youth Center near Charm, a field that features easy access to the turf field for individuals in wheelchairs and all athletes. Warm-up will begin at 5:30 p.m. each night with games slated for 6 p.m.

Anyone who would like to register an individual, with questions or who would like to volunteer as a buddy may call Allison at the HCBDD at 330-674-8045.

HCBDD staff will tackle the administrative portion of the league, so all buddies and fans have to do is show up, enjoy the games and experience the joy.

“We invite anyone who just wants to come and enjoy the experience to watch the games,” Allison said. “It’s going to be a terrific experience. This is going to be a win-win for everyone involved and for our community.”