Buddy Ball: Inclusive Baseball for Kids in the Sauk Valley

Season 2, Episode 97

In this episode of Along the Rock, host Kaitlyn Blum talks with Marc Tintori of the Optimist Club about the launch of Buddy Ball, a brand-new baseball league designed for children with physical, intellectual, and emotional challenges.

Buddy Ball is more than a game — it’s about inclusion, confidence, and friendship. With no strikes, no outs, and the support of volunteer “buddies,” every child has the chance to bat, run the bases, and be part of the team.

Learn how the program came to the Sauk Valley, why it matters, and how students and volunteers can get involved.

👉 Learn more and follow Optimist Club of Sterling, IL on Facebook

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🎤 Timestamps & Highlights:

00:32 – Introducing Buddy Ball
00:43 – How the Buddy Ball League Works
01:08 – Differences from Traditional Baseball
01:40 – The Role of Buddies (Volunteers & Family)
02:19 – How Buddies Support Kids on the Field
02:41 – Why Bring Buddy Ball to the Sauk Valley?
03:43 – Call for Student Volunteers
04:20 – Volunteer Hours & Nonprofit Connection
04:33 – How to Sign Up & Event Details
04:58 – Ages & Participation Info
05:03 – What a Buddy Ball Game Looks Like
06:38 – Kaitlyn's Question

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