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Background of partnership
Since 2023, the Black Hawk College baseball team has partnered with Rock Island Parks and Recreation to host an adaptive baseball program for participants of all ages with disabilities.
This year’s four-week September session was held at Hodge Park in Rock Island. The 12 participants ranged in age from 5 to 46.
BHC baseball players serve as buddies, sharing their knowledge and love for the sport one-on-one, Lauren Coyne, Community Recreation Manager of Adaptive Services at Rock Island Parks and Recreation, explained.
“This allows participants to work on skills like throwing, hitting and fielding while also building relationships and confidence,” Coyne said.
Giving back to community
Admid busy baseball seasons, head baseball coach Ryan Lorber prioritizes giving back to the community with his team, whether by volunteering with Kings Harvest, Davenport East Little League, or the adaptive baseball program.
Lorber said it’s an honor to collaborate with the adaptive baseball program.
“As a team, we talk a lot about how fortunate we are and that we have the opportunity to play baseball every day, but the participants in the adaptive baseball program don’t have those same opportunities,” Lorber said.
“The very first day we ran bases and watched [participants] race our guys; it was a blast.”
“A participant hitting was really good, especially compared to last year. One of my players went up to him asking, ‘You’ve been practicing?’ and he was like, ‘I practice all the time.’”
Building Confidence
Whether it’s a year or four weeks, participating in the program helps individuals build confidence and creates an inclusive space.
“Watching participants build confidence, try new skills and simply have fun playing baseball has been incredibly meaningful,” Coyne said.
“These student athletes have also embraced their role as buddies, creating genuine relationships with participants and helping make everyone feel included.”
“Seeing the excitement on participants’ faces and watching their skills and confidence grow has reinforced how valuable adaptive recreation opportunities are in our community.”
Joy of the Game
For baseball player and BHC sophomore Shraden Lechtenberg, seeing participants’ joy remains rewarding.
“Being able to give them an opportunity and seeing all the smiles and all the laughter that happens makes anyone’s day better,” Lechtenberg said.
“When they were giving out awards, and you see all the kids walking up smiling to get their medal, that was really cool to see.”