Thanks to the Naples Children and Education Foundation (NCEF), the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation program team traveled to Naples, Florida to host an adaptive clinic for youth with special needs and a weekend-long camp for middle school youth from November 16 – November 18.
On Friday, November 16, 22 youth with special needs from ABLE Academy participated in a baseball/softball clinic on Baker Field, one of the Foundation’s 81 Youth Development Parks. Youth took part in different baseball/softball skills and drills before taking their talents to a game. The Marco Police Department served as some of the coaching staff for the youth during the game.
On Saturday, November 17 and Sunday, November 18, 117 youth from the Boys & Girls Club of Collier County, Great Programs Synergizing (GPS), Grace Place, Valerie’s House, Garguilo Education Center, and the SPORTs Club participated in a weekend long camp. On Saturday, in the morning, youth participated in various baseball/softball drills on Baker Field. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission treated youth to a K9 presentation before youth finished the day with a multi-sport clinic. On Sunday, youth were able to put their skills to use in games held at JetBlue Park, the Spring Training home of the 2018 World Champions, Boston Red Sox. Before leaving JetBlue Park, youth were surprised with special guest, Jackie Bradley, Jr., center fielder for the Boston Red Sox. Youth asked several questions and were able to take a photo with the World Series Champion.
Youth and the Ripken Foundation program team had a blast in Naples! Check out some of the photos from the weekend.