Field of Dreams Kickball is a league that was created by Pike County High School senior and Pirates baseball standout MT Moody for those with special needs. He and his family work together to make each of the season’s games fun for all participants.
His father Michael Moody, runs the PA system and announces each player’s turn to kick and then plays a walk up song for them. His mother, Whittney Moody, helps organize the teams and other family members help in the dugout or act as ‘field friends’ to accompany their athlete each inning.
MT Moody came up with the idea as a tenth grader and this is the fourth season for the special kickball league. Siblings of those with special needs are invited to play as well while parents are allowed to sit in the bleachers and watch.
In addition to his family, MT’s friends and fellow Pirates baseball players joined in to help make the league a success, including Zane Garner, Ashton Owens, Sawyer Selman, Lyric Scott and Semaj Smith as well as friends Kobe Martin and Corbyn Wood. Members of Journey Church help as well, including Katie and Tyler Buckles, Tabetha, Hugh and Asher Cooper, Adrianne and Zach Fritsche, Jarod Jones, Alina and John Kelly, Mallorie Moore, Krystle and Gabe Parker and Kelly and Bruce Power.
“Growing up, my little brothers Max and Jude have always wanted to play baseball like me but that just didn’t work out for them. So we put together this kickball league so anyone with special needs can play,” said MT Moody. “It’s grown really fast and it seems like there’s a new family here every week. Our volunteers are great and we have a buddy system so everyone who needs it has a buddy. It means a lot to see Max and Jude and all the kids having a great time together.”
Whittney Moody said around 30 different players have taken part in the kickball league since it started four season ago. She said athletes of all ages have played, with all sorts of challenges.
“Pike County Recreation has been very generous to let us use their t-ball field for the games,” said Whittney. “It’s been really nice to see and provide a sports outlet for the special needs members of our Pike community. We want the parents to be able to sit in the stands and cheer on their kids and relax during the game. Max and Jude were always MT’s and his sister’s biggest fans and seeing how they’ve impacted their big brother and sister as well is really heartwarming.”
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