IL1 Indianapolis Indians

Indians Host Special Needs Clinic for Autism Speaks

August 3, 2016 - International League (IL1)
Indianapolis Indians News Release


The dirt from the infield kicked up in a cloud as a young boy just barely escaped the tag of first baseman Josh Bell, incessantly smiling. As Bell closed in, the two fell into a fit of laughter. In that moment, it did not matter that one was a major leaguer and the other had special needs; the two were just kids playing an innocent game of tag.

This boy was just one of the many children and young adults with disabilities who made the trip to Victory Field July 30 to participate in an Indianapolis Indians baseball clinic, in partnership with Autism Speaks. With stations set up on the field, participants received lengthy one-on-one instruction in batting, fielding, and throwing from the entire Indians roster. Families of all shapes and sizes dotted the field, and reoccurring cheers of encouragement from Indians players and coaches echoed throughout the ballpark.

"This day means so much to these kids and these families," said Nanci Bonfield, senior coordinator of field development in Indiana and Michigan for Autism Speaks. "It's a chance for them to get out and enjoy the day with these players and enjoy the opportunity to learn some baseball. This setting is perfect for them: there is not a large crowd, and it's not loud."

The Autism Speaks website notes autism is part of a group of complex disorders of brain development. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors. It is estimated 70 million people identify on the autism spectrum including 1 in 68 American children.

Tracing its roots back to 2005, Autism Speaks was founded by Bob and Suzanne Wright in order to create awareness for children with autism. Now, it is the leading organization in autism advocacy, creating hope and support for families affected by a disability.

"As a (Pittsburgh) Pirates organization, we talk about community, and there's a lot that Indians players and the front office do in Indianapolis that I'm not sure a lot of people are aware of, which is ok," said Manager Dean Treanor. "Days like today are about a chance to do something like this and give back a little bit and just interact with these kids and families. The families are so appreciative and the kids are having a blast."

So whether it was throwing with infielder Alen Hanson, or receiving a well-deserved high-five from All-Star Pitcher Frank Duncan, the kids were able to enjoy a day at the ballpark in the perfect setting.

"Guys who you wouldn't expect to jump in and get involved are in there with these guys down on the mound and this is what it's all about," Treanor said proudly.

To assist families with special needs children enjoy a baseball game and the overall Victory Field experience, noise-cancelling headphones and weighted sensory blankets are available at Guest Relations located behind Section 109.

Footnote: The day prior to the Indianapolis Indians 2016 Special Needs Clinic, co-founder of the national organization Autism Speaks Suzanne Wright (69) passed away after a battle with pancreatic cancer. Click here to learn more about the noble efforts in her fight against autism. This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

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