“Our players volunteering their time in the community is a vital part of our baseball program,” said head coach Terry Rooney. “I want each individual to understand the significance and responsibility of being a player in our program and the positive impact they can have on others.”
The Knights gave back to the community during a “Keep Seminole County Beautiful” event, helping with landscaping and keeping trails clear. They also spent time with the Miracle League, a youth baseball league designed to give mentally and physically disabled children the opportunity to participate in a sport that might otherwise have very limited access for them. The Miracle League not only promotes the sport itself but also the building of self-esteem and camaraderie that playing it can provide.
In order to assist players, the Miracle League has developed a system aptly titled “Angels in the Outfield.” This buddy system pairs each child with an able-bodied volunteer, a role UCF student-athletes were more than willing to play, and allows for a unique bond to be formed between the two.
Meanwhile, the Knights traveled to Cranes Roost Park in Uptown Altamonte during Homecoming weekend to participate in the Autism Speaks Walk.
UCF also worked with four local little leagues, conducting drills and giving players a great chance at learning the skills they need to be successful from some of the top collegiate players and coaches in Division I baseball. The Black and Gold assisted with the Oviedo, College Park, Dr. Phillips and Union Park Little Leagues.
The Knights have wrapped up their fall camp and will return in the spring as Opening Day 2010 is set for Feb. 19 at home against Savannah State.