The Norwich City School District celebrated its 11th annual Baseball Buddies event on Tuesday evening at the Little League Field. Over 60 students participated. (Photo by Morgan Golliver)

NORWICH – The Norwich City School District celebrated its 11th annual Baseball Buddies event, where over 60 students participated.

There were about 32 players matched up with around 38 buddies of student-athletes. The student-athletes helped paired new friend learn how to catch a ball and also learn how to hold a bat for the first time. Some players were nervous while others were too excited to put the bat down after their turn while some outran their buddy to first base.

Each player and their buddy were separated into two teams, where each player had a chance to bat and play the field at least twice. After the successful event, that always brings out such much community support, the players were treated to a hot dog and water from the concession stand.

Baseball Buddies was started by Danny Carson in 2011. Carson, who graduated from Norwich High School in 2013, had a strong connection at the time with the special education department and had heard of similar events taking place elsewhere. He, along with his core group of teachers, thought it would be a great idea for Norwich to have and the idea was born. Today, Baseball Buddies is appreciated by all who participate and attend.

Carson attended this year’s event with his family and loved seeing his idea still going strong.

While the Carson family is still involved, it is Jen Parker and her family who runs the event. Jen, an Occupational Therapist at Gibson school, knew all the students, athletes, and volunteers, so it was an event she appreciates planning each year.

The Norwich community is already looking forward to next year’s event. Great job everyone.