DUBLIN, Ohio — America’s favorite pastime only requires a few essentials—a bat, ball, glove and bubble gum of course.
For Joe Schroeder, it also includes a warmup game of catch between his friend, Brian, and his dad, Jim.
Joe and Brian have been playing together for 10 years. It’s the same amount of time Joe has been participating in Miracle League of Central Ohio, a baseball league for adults with disabilities. Joe is the pitcher, but his goal isn’t to strike out his opponents.
(Spectrum News 1/MaryLee Melendez)
“Joe knows that’s not what this is about and he does his best to try and help the other players hit the ball and I was talking to him about and I said, why do you do that? He said because I want them to have fun too and I’m really proud of him for that,” said Joe’s dad, Jim.
He’s also proud of what this organization stands for and encourages others to come out and watch a game.
“It will remind you of what sports is supposed to be about, the thrill and the joy of competing. It’s not about winning or losing, it’s about going out there and having a good time and doing the best you can,” said Jim.
For Joe, his best is hitting it out of the park, and being the best cheerleader for his teammates.
Miracle League Volunteer and PA announcer Adam Beatrice said that kind of camaraderie is what it’s all about.
“It’s bringing a community together or people who like baseball and players that want to play, common interests, just come out and have fun for a few hours on a Tuesday or Thursday night.”
And a lot of fun they’re having.
