April 4, 2023 "Miracle League"

The Miracle League

Rayden has been counting the days until he could play baseball again. We decided to join The Miracle League of Dunn this year because Rayden was too old for T-ball and we didn't think it was safe for him to play coach pitch with his peers. We didn't really know what to expect. We wondered how he would accept a team with players of all ages, and each player having a buddy by their side. Rayden never ceases to amaze us, though. He didn't say one word about teenagers playing on the team. He was so thrilled to be back out there. Having a buddy to talk to in the outfield sure made Rayden happy. (He LOVES to talk.) He was all smiles after each game and told every single person he met the next day about how he hit the ball. He was sure to invite everyone to his games as well. 

Special thanks to his buddies during the games: 

1. Captain Matthew Smith of Dunn Police Dept.               4. Jarius Brown of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity

2. Ryan Tart of Triton High School Football Team            5. George Adler, Planning Director-City of Dunn

3. Brittany Staves of Campbell University Basketball       6. Sean and Felix of Campbell University Soccer

We appreciate all the fans that came to support this wonderful team and our 
one-of-a-kind Miracle, Rayden. 

Mom, Dad, Alex, Justin, Granny, Nanny, Papa, Uncle Gerome Heath, Aunt Patsy Lee, Angie Parker, Tucker Wright, Mary Beth & Skye Canterbury, Michelle Jackson, Jeff Wilson, Stephanie, Case, & Cayden Bass, Carol & Harrison Raines, and Kelly & Jackie Morris. 

The last game, Rayden decided to be a 'switch hitter'. His first time up to bat he hit right handed like he did every other game. Second inning, he decided to switch up and hit left handed. He actually hit the ball both ways pretty good! It amazes me how he can do things with both hands. Most people are either left OR right handed not BOTH. He also wouldn't run to first base until he put his bat away! He took care of his equipment, haha. The coaches presented each player with a medal after the last game. Rayden was thrilled and so proud of himself. He began showing it off immediately. He even took it to school the next day and shared it with his classmates. We are so proud of him for being such a wonderful sport, following the rules, taking turns, being respectful, meeting new friends, and standing/walking for over an hour even though it was hot. He enjoyed ever minute of The Miracle League games and can't wait to play again next season. ⚾