by Justine
The New Brunswick Canada Games Girls Softball Team had one mindset last Sunday as they travelled to Truro, Nova Scotia for two exhibition games, play strong and put up a good fight. They did just so, splitting the games with one win and one loss. The team played very well suffering only two difficult innings, accounting for the loss. Although their performance on the field was what was on the girls' minds last weekend, their focus changed to a different kind of performance for the following Saturday. Members of the team headed to Fredericton to assist in teaching a group of persons with a disability something about the game of softball as part of an all day recreation event (Recreation Your Way), organized by the Inclusive Committee of Recreation New Brunswick.
The girls put on their jerseys and tied their cleats like any other day but it was much more than any other day. Members of the team proceeded to have a catch and field balls hit off of the tee, introducing the basics of the sport. It was not only softball skills that were learned that day, the girls learned the satisfaction of putting smiles on someone else's face and giving someone a reason to be excited about the game. It was an eye opening experience, one that only expanded the girls' appreciation for the sport. There were many smiles and laughs as the NB softball players encouraged and congratulated the participants after every solid hit. Barry Freeze concluded the softball session with motivational and inspirational words. Team NB greatly appreciates the opportunity to participate in such an event. Every player on the team is able to do something they love when they hit the field because of the time parents and coaches have put in over the years and the girls feel that it's only appropriate for them to provide the same opportunity to others.
The Inclusive Recreation Committee of Recreation New Brunswick is a provincial network of recreation practitioners, people with disabilities, and disability organizations. Our mandate is to promote and facilitate inclusive recreation opportunities for people with disabilities throughout New Brunswick.
The Inclusive Recreation Committee's major event "Recreation Your Way", is a full day designed to showcase the sport, recreation and active living opportunities for people with disabilities in their community. This event welcomes everyone who wants to learn more, make connections with community leaders and supports, actively participate and be inspired to continue leading active, healthy lives.
You've seen these activities on TV, in
your school and in your community…
Now it's YOUR turn to try them out!
