Raterink Named Week 13 National Guard Community MVP
June 1, 2012 - Arena Football League (AFL) News Release
CHICAGO - Iowa Barnstormers QB J.J. RATERINK has been named National Guard Community MVP of the Week for his recent philanthropic efforts.
Raterink (6-2, 210, Wyoming) is in his third AFL season and his first with the Barnstormers.
Raterink recently visited an elementary school in Des Moines, Iowa to read and give an inspirational speech to fifth and sixth grade students. His best piece of advice to the group was not to be afraid to be your own person.
"Even though it doesn't always seem like the most popular decision to go against the grain, when you know what the right choice is, make sure to follow through with it," Raterink said.
As a quarterback, Raterink was looked upon to make the right choices on-and-off the field growing up and now as an adult.
"I'd like to think that at a young age people viewed me as a leader and they continue to do that today," Raterink said.
On Saturday, Raterink and his teammates will be volunteering with the Miracle League. The Miracle League provides children and adults with special needs an opportunity to play baseball thanks to a special baseball complex designed with their needs in mind.
"They are planning on playing baseball and we are going to help them hit the ball, get around the bases and assist them in any way that we can," Raterink said.
Raterink thinks that the outing will be as beneficial for the team as it is for the kids.
"The guys will appreciate the fact that they're still able to play at this level. While there are people with limited abilities who are trying to do this for fun, the best they can," Raterink said.
With a passion for kids and sports, Raterink is looking forward to helping out the Miracle League this weekend.
"Anytime you get to do something a little more active with the kids, it's easy to get involved and be attentive," Raterink said. "It should go really well and I know it will be a lot of fun."
The Iowa Barnstormers (4-7) will host the Cleveland Gladiators (6-4) tonight on "NET10 Arena Football Friday" on NFL Network at 8:00 pm ET.
The National Guard Community MVP is awarded to one player each week in recognition of their commitment to community service. Following the 2012 season, players will be voted on by fans to become the National Guard Community MVP of the Year.
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