Woodbridge, Va. — The first four pitches at last week’s baseball game at C.D. Hylton High School vs. Gar Field Senior High School didn’t quite cross home plate, but the crowd cheered enthusiastically for each one.
Antietam Elementary School first graders from Lake Ridge joined Hylton’s regular starting lineup on the field as the conclusion of the “Bulldog Readers” program, which is now in its second year.
Bulldog Readers was developed by Craig and Beth Flesher, both Prince William County Public Schools employees, to foster an appreciation for the county’s healthy lifestyle initiatives, reading, and community service.
“When Craig was looking for a way to get his team involved in some kind of service, it just worked out that the county healthy living initiatives had come out and we realized we could do something where everyone would benefit” said Beth Flesher at Thursday night’s home game.
Recently, the Hylton baseball team trekked to Antietam Elementary and joined roughly 100 first graders for a day of reading, plays, and outdoor activity. Each child who participated also received a free ticket to Thursday’s game and an invitation to be introduced at a special ceremony before the game.
Children had their names called and ran through a tunnel of players to the second base line where they remained for the National Anthem. Four students were selected to throw out opening pitches, and two were taken to the media box to call “play ball” and begin the game.
“I am not throwing that ball, but I get to talk in the microphone!” said Heather, 7, who acted as one of the announcers with her friend Emma.
After being introduced, the Antietam students headed back to the stands to enjoy the game. “Hey!! I know that one!” was a common call from the stands throughout the evening, demonstrating the impression left on the elementary students by their teenage counterparts taking the time to interact with them. “I hope they win, they’re my friends now” concluded Riley, 7. “They played with us, so we’re friends.”
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