On Sunday, the New York Mets hosted a clinic for the St. Lucie Special Olympics at Tradition Field.
The feel of the event can be summed up with a quote from Special Olympics regional director Jeff Hancock, who said, “This is beyond amazing. The opportunities that our athletes in the Special Olympics have because of the New York Mets bringing this clinic in is unbelievable.”
“This is once-in-a-lifetime for anybody, let alone an athlete with the Special Olympics. I cannot say it enough: Thank you, New York Mets, for allowing us out here today.”
The group consisted of over 100 athletes, ranging from as young as four years old to adults. The clinic lasted longer than two hours, as over a dozen Mets players taught and played with the special Olympians.
When the athletes got to the stadium entrance, they were greeted by David Wright, Curtis Granderson, and Hall-of-Famer Mike Piazza. They all then went onto the field where the rest of the players were waiting to meet them.
Many players were there helping out giving the athletes the times of their lives, including the likes of Noah Syndergaard, Steven Matz, Jacob deGrom, Neil Walker, Buddy Carlyle, Wilmer Flores, Eric Campbell, and Brandon Nimmo.
MLB.com’s Anthony DiComo spoke to Granderson who said, “It’s every kid’s dream, and these kids are no different than anybody else. They all enjoy watching the game. They enjoy being out on the field and they enjoy playing. They get a chance to do all of that today, so it’s a great moment and experience. Hopefully we just get a chance to put smiles on their faces and bring some joy.”
Thor was speaking to the TC Palm’s Jon Santucci, and said, “It’s a great cause. This allows them to come out, participate with us and be part of the team. Just being able to hang out is great.” There are some more wonderful photos here at TC Palm.
“We take great pride in being an active member in the St. Lucie community during the spring training months and throughout the year,” Mets COO Jeff Wilpon said in a statement. “Our players and coaches have always been willing to give their time to local community and charitable efforts, including our players and coaches hosting Special Olympic athletes from all over the state.”
My brother has Down’s Syndrome so this is, to me, extra awesome. The Mets keep doing amazin’ things, being a fantastic organization both on and off the field. I am so very proud to be a Mets fan.
Follow me on Twitter @LBarer32! LET’S GO METS!
