2008 Woodie Awards
Softball hosts Special Olympians
Matt Rosenberg
Issue date: 10/10/08 Section: Sports
Originally published: 10/9/08 at 7:58 PM EST
Last update: 10/9/08 at 7:56 PM EST
While Ryan has been a part-time volunteer with the Special Olympics, there are full-time people as well.
Paul Osenbagh played the role of first base coach during the game. Off the field, he is a direct support professional for the Special Olympics, providing residential support and emotional training while also teaching social skills.
"Special Olympics has a state tournament, but we couldn't do it (this year)," he said. "They will remember this more. It's got to take work and coordination to make this happen. The women are terrific."
The teams shared the third base dugout for the game. Cheering and high-fives littered the dugout in between innings and after good plays in the field.
Ryan's husband, Terry, also volunteers with the Special Olympics and has done work with the tennis team.
"We work on setting goals, calming yourself, staying focused and relaxing," he said. "It's been wonderful. There has been tremendous support over the years."
During halftime of the women's soccer game following the softball game, the Special Olympians were introduced at midfield accompanied by a PSUC softball player. A 50/50 raffle was offered to fans in the stands at the Fieldhouse soccer complex to help raise money.
While the Special Olympians defeated PSUC, the day was not about the score. It was the chance to be recognized. It was the chance to be part of a community event. It was validation.
Pitcher for the Special Olympians, Don Caza, summed it up after the game.
"We appreciate you guys coming out and giving us a chance to beat you," he said. "But I think we're all winners."
Paul Osenbagh played the role of first base coach during the game. Off the field, he is a direct support professional for the Special Olympics, providing residential support and emotional training while also teaching social skills.
"Special Olympics has a state tournament, but we couldn't do it (this year)," he said. "They will remember this more. It's got to take work and coordination to make this happen. The women are terrific."
The teams shared the third base dugout for the game. Cheering and high-fives littered the dugout in between innings and after good plays in the field.
Ryan's husband, Terry, also volunteers with the Special Olympics and has done work with the tennis team.
"We work on setting goals, calming yourself, staying focused and relaxing," he said. "It's been wonderful. There has been tremendous support over the years."
During halftime of the women's soccer game following the softball game, the Special Olympians were introduced at midfield accompanied by a PSUC softball player. A 50/50 raffle was offered to fans in the stands at the Fieldhouse soccer complex to help raise money.
While the Special Olympians defeated PSUC, the day was not about the score. It was the chance to be recognized. It was the chance to be part of a community event. It was validation.
Pitcher for the Special Olympians, Don Caza, summed it up after the game.
"We appreciate you guys coming out and giving us a chance to beat you," he said. "But I think we're all winners."
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