Cheerleaders and football players from Mason Creek Middle School spent an inspiring day playing baseball with League of Stars athletes at Hunter Park on September 20.
This was the second year in a row that Mason Creek athletes have participated, and Head Cheerleading Coach Hope Carnes said they were “excited to go back and help out.” The partnership was organized by FCA Leader Keith Wagner with Head Football Coach Brad Miller and included two baseball games with the League of Stars — one for younger players and another for older athletes.
Carnes said in the game with younger League of Stars athletes, Mason Creek football players helped the League of Stars athletes swing the bat and run around the bases.
Mason Creek’s cheerleaders performed in the outfield, cheering, tumbling and doing stunts during the games, and several League of Stars players stopped by to watch in awe, Carnes said.
“Mason Creek loves partnering up with this event. It is special to our hearts,” she said, noting that many of the athletes at Mason Creek are ambassadors to the special needs students at the school."
She added: “For me, I love watching the smiles on everyone's face, it's truly heartwarming! Seeing our big tough football players holding these tiny hands is something special to see. No one's worried about making mistakes, dropping a ball or scoring a run — it's all about having fun. It's inspiring to see these kids with disabilities not letting it define their experience and getting to play. It's a testament to the power of sports to bring joy, build confidence, and create a sense of belonging for everyone.”