It was a dream adventure for members of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Elkhart County’s Nappanee Clubhouse. They got behind-the-scenes access to the new baseball stadium at NorthWood High School as part of a “Field Of Dreams” adventure.
The event was made possible because of a donation by Metz Auto Group. The Wa-Nee School Corporation also provided access to the dugout and field before the game.
Members were able to run the bases, meet the players and get autographed baseballs and were on the field during the national anthem. They also created a tunnel of high-fives for the players as they ran onto the field. Two members — Paxton and Victoria — got to be bat boy/girl during the game.
“This is a very cool, unique opportunity that some of our kids might not get to experience. Having the Club so visible also brings community awareness to the Boys & Girls Clubs,” said county Program and Training Director Mandy Gerber. “The schools and the team have just been incredible in making this experience extra special.”
Gerber noted that donor Jason Metz from Metz Auto Group also went above and beyond in making the experience special for the kids by providing baseballs for the players to sign for members.
Despite some rain during the game, spirits were high for the members.
“It’s really exciting to see all the players and getting a signed baseball,” said 9-year-old Paxton, who served as a bat boy during the game.