Baseball Bonanza Gives Autistic Kids a Day with the Blue Devils

On May 6th, 2023, the Duke Center for Autism partnered with Duke Varsity Baseball to host our second Baseball Bonanza event at Jack Coombs Field on Duke’s West Campus. Families from as far away as Texas and New York made the trek to Durham to join us for this very special opportunity.

Close to 70 kids had a blast practicing throwing, batting, catching, and base running while receiving hands-on coaching from the Duke Baseball players. The kids also enjoyed getting autographs from the players, and each participant received a special Baseball Bonanza t-shirt, Duke Baseball 2023 season poster, and soft baseball toy.

attendees at Baseball Bonanza

“…Tayshon’s dad was able to take him, and I was told he had a wonderful time.
He got a chance to meet some of the players. Tayshon played catch with one of
the players (which was very inspiring for him). He also got a chance to go into the
batting cage (which was initially scary for him), but Tayshon pulled through and
did an excellent job! I’m hoping that you guys do this again next year…” - Tayshon's mom

Coach Pollard with child

What an incredible opportunity to partner with the Duke Center for Autism and Brain Development for the 2023 Baseball Bonanza. A great time was had by learning and growing in the game of baseball. I am so humbled by the efforts of so many of the families that traveled from all across the country to be a part of this special event.” - Chris Pollard, Duke Baseball Head Coach

Screenshot of Twitter exchange between player and mom
A Duke Baseball player responds to a mom's tweet about the event.

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