As the Lady Jaguars have done most every weekend since the beginning of the school year, Saturday, April 5th seemed to be just another community service project..… or  so they thought. It took only minutes at All Kids Count - Circle R Ranch, to know that this was no ordinary event. 

The annual All Kids Count Festival is a huge celebration and acceptance of children with daily challenges, inclusion in school, recreation and the community.  The Lady Jaguars embraced the opportunity to enjoy a day of fun, playing and meet each of the special needs children attending the event.  Amidst the face painting, horseback ridding, petting zoo, mid-way games and hearty lunch, true long-lasting bonds of friendship were formed with many. 

Upon meeting one child, it was immediately noticed that she donned and I love Softball Shirt.  Asked about her love for the game, she proudly announced that she was the “best ever” softball player!   With in moments, Lady Jag Pitcher Dana Nathanson, Catcher Kayleigh Walts and 3^rd Baseman Taylor Hoagland pulled up a chair to hear this player’s antics on the dirt; they easily melded together as if they had played on the same team forever.

With minutes what once was a timid young girl, not sure if she wanted to even be at this event, blossomed in a very animated self-confident softball player.  What a thrill to listen to these Lady Jaguars talk about their love of the game, their victories, defeats on the dirt and matching game strategies with this player who endures daily challenges of a great magtuide.   As the parents of the child departed, with a wink and a smile, dad assured the Jags, that they had not only made his daughters day, week, month, but her rather. …YEAR! Truly impacting someone’s life by spending a few minutes talking about something you love so much, and often take for granted, is truly a gift easily shared. 

The Lady Jags fully understand that all barriers that exclude children with disabilities, like all children, have the need to be welcomed, cherished and embraced in our communities.