The last weekend in June saw the Wonder League's (Rattlers') last game of their first season in Healdsburg. James has loved each and every game, so we all turned out to see him play. This was lucky because the team was short a few players, so siblings and cousins were welcomed on the field with open arms.
To call watching this "heartwarming" is a severe understatement.
James got his turn at the microphone to help "test-test-test!" and announce the first batter: himself. He squared up to the t-ball stand and whacked a good one. He looked at us to make sure we saw that and then ran gleefully to first base, his buddy (Healdsburg Sunrise Rotarians were on duty this week) at his side. He was having such a good time out there that he had to be reminded to advance the bases and tag the physical square on the ground with his foot. After he ran across home plate he jumped up and down, laughing and flapping both hands.
He yelled encouragement to his sister as she came up to bat. She's never played baseball before, or even wanted to try. The buddies and players helped her have a blast! She needed some help the first time or two around the bases, but then quickly caught on. She even swung at a few pitches while at-bat, which is is a remarkable testament to how this helped her self-confidence.
It was great to see that while James predictably became absorbed in patting the ground with his hands, he also chased after ground balls and knew to throw the ball back to the pitcher. As I watched him pounce on one ball, I broke into a big grin. How much fun he was having!
After the game was over, George, the league's organizer, announced there would be an awards lunch at the community center next door. James insisted on pulling the water coolers over to the hall:
After a great pizza lunch (with cookies and ice cream for dessert), the awards were handed out. George and the Rotarians really went all out to provide some thoughtful, exciting mementos. Each Rattlers player received a trophy, followed by framed photographs of the team and the individual player:
I have to tell you that the woman who took the photos all throughout the season did an amazing job! What did James think? After grinning big time, he hoisted his trophy and crowed "I am King of the Day!!!!!"
So thank you a zillion times, George, Healdsburg Rotarians, and all the Wonder League volunteers. You helped make our guy King of the Day and gave him memories that will last a life time.
If you are interesting in joining the Healdsburg Wonder League next year or interesting in volunteering, please call (707) 433-8477 or email HBWonderLeague@gmail.com. They are hoping to grow for next year!
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