252Athletics Last fall, the Harding baseball team dedicated a day to Miracle League in Little Rock, a baseball league tailored for physically and mentally disabled children. Senior Billy Johnston, a pitcher for Harding, highlighted the impact of the event on him and his teammates. Dressed in their uniforms, each of the players paired with one of the Miracle League participants. This was an annual event that included the entirety of the Harding baseball team. “We take two groups and the whole day is typically four hours,” Johnston said. “Overall it is a very cool experience that I’m glad the baseball team undertakes. Obviously it’s a very humbling experience to see the things these kids suffer from and opens my eyes a bit to just how lucky I am and appreciate more what God has blessed me with.” Sophomore Collin Helms, another member of the Harding baseball team, emphasized the connections made with each Miracle League player and called attention to the event as a medium through which his team could use the skills they had been given to bless others. “Being able to share the passion for the game we love is a great way to connect with each kid,” Helms said. “It means a lot to each guy because during the time we are there we get to develop small relationships with each Miracle League player. It’s our unique way of putting to work the tools God has given us.” Also on the Harding baseball team, junior Caleb Barger spoke to the excitement surrounding the event, not just from the participants of Miracle League, but Harding as well. “It’s one of the best things we do,” Barger said. “I know all the guys love doing it. They enjoy being out there and being able to play and it’s such a cool experience to meet these kids and see them play and laugh and enjoy hanging out. It’s such an amazing experience. We have a blast just the same as the kids.” The Harding baseball team’s involvement with Miracle League served as a reminder of the power of sports in cultivating a mindset of empathy, leading to a deeper connection with the local community. Through service, the team not only encouraged the participants of Miracle League, but experienced personal growth in shared excitement for a sport that was collectively loved by all who participated. In years to come, the Harding baseball team would continue to keep the spirit of true sportsmanship and compassion alive. Written by Bailey Coffman MIRACLE MEMORIES Harding’s baseball team dedicates a day in Little Rock to the Miracle League baseball team. “It means a lot to each guy because during the time we are there we get to develop small relationships with each Miracle League player. It’s our unique way of putting to work the tools God has given us.” - Collin Helms Batter Up | Freshman Joshua Bybee and sophomore Will Roguske pose with a young boy at the Miracle League baseball game. Both players participated in the league with the Harding Baseball team. Photo courtesy of Caleb Barger
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