ONB Supports New Buddy Ball League

April 20 was a special day in baseball for many children, family members and volunteers in the Tri-State area. It was opening day for the newly-formed Buddy Ball League in Newburgh, Ind. And Bob Jones, President and CEO, and Jim Sandgren, Southern Region CEO, were there to help and throw out the ceremonial first pitch.

Several months ago ONB associate Jim Hopkins approached Newburgh Junior Baseball (NJB) about starting a special needs league. Jim’s son, Ethan, had played in a special needs league in Wisconsin, and he wanted to start a similar program for children and young adults in the Tri-State area. Thanks to Jim's knowledge, leadership and hard work, along with a sponsorship from Old National, NJB was able to form a new special needs league called Buddy Ball.

“This has been a fantastic group effort between ONB, Newburgh Junior Baseball, other local businesses and individuals who have offered a hand. Everyone latched onto the idea from the start and have been very supportive in getting this off the ground,” said Jim Hopkins.

Jim worked closely with Rick Jillson, also an ONB associate and NJB board member, to organize the league. The goal of Buddy Ball is to allow special needs kids and adults to have fun while participating in a "normal" activity - baseball. There are no outs, every player scores and all games end in a tie. The emphasis is on fun and safety.

Buddies are local volunteers who take the field with the players to help them field and throw the ball. Buddies also help players bat and run the bases. May 4 was ONB Day for Buddy Ball where associates and their family members generously volunteered their time to support this new baseball league.

There are two teams with special needs children and two teams with special needs adolescents and young adults. ONB not only sponsors the league, but also one of the four teams.

Remaining buddy ball game dates are May 18, May 25, June 8 and June 15. All games are played at Vann Road Park in Newburgh located east of Castle High School. Adult and teen volunteers are always welcome.

Jim Hopkins, Bob Jones and Jim Sandgren prepare to throw out the first pitch for the new Buddy Ball League.

Jackie Russell and her buddy prepare for the next play.

Chris Wolking and his buddy wave to the crowd.

For Further Information Call:
Kate Miller, Community Relations Officer, (812) 461-9378.