Everyone plays – Everyone wins!
It was a hot day Saturday, May 30 but the heat did not stop the fun for 11 youngsters from LaSalle and Winn parishes as the first Buddy Ball of Olla event took place since 2022.
“Buddy Ball of Olla was started in 2022 by Clint and Abby Austin,” stated board member Jill Roark. “But they moved to Oak Grove, and no events were held until this year when we decided to continue the program with the help of sponsors.”
Buddy Ball of Olla is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization which sponsors a league designed for children living with special needs, delays and/or disabilities of any kind.
The target age range for children to participate is 5-16, but officials make an effort to include older children as well while protecting all participants.
“Our leagues are divided up according on age and individual skill set, allowing each child to play in a safe environment,” Roark said. “At every event, we have authorized volunteers or ‘buddies’ designated for each child during every sporting event.”
She noted that the goal is for each child to feel comfortable and have fun. Rules of specific games are not strictly enforced as the major emphasis is placed on allowing every child to be included, make friends and have a great time.
“We want the children as well as their parents to have the experience of a lifetime and feel comfortable during their time of play,” Roark continued. “This is to allow children with physical, cognitive or other delays the opportunity to participate in regular sports.”
On May 30, the game of baseball was chosen with a superhero theme. The children dressed up in superhero costumes and played. Volunteers or parents assisted the children bat, run the bases and field, and while they wore no superhero costumes, their actions that day demonstrated superhero qualities. The event was held at the Town of Olla Sports & Recreation Complex.
“But we are going to play all different types of sports – not just baseball,” Roark said. “Our next event which will be held just before school starts, will be held inside a gym to allow the children to stay cool and we’ll likely play kickball.”
Future sports may include softball, soccer, basketball and others.
The May 30th event was the first since 2022, but board members and volunteers say now that they have reorganized, regular events will be scheduled.
“We plan on having regular events to bring the children together and experience fun,” Roark said. “We are always looking for more sponsors and volunteers to assist. If you have never been a part of this type of event, come and see for yourself. It is a blessing like you’ve never experienced.”
Although the non-profit was established in Olla, any child in LaSalle Parish or surrounding area may participate in the league. For more information, visit their Facebook page, Buddy Ball of Olla, or contact Jill Roark at (318) 372-1889.
Donations are also accepted to help fund the league’s activities. Information on sponsorship and tax-deductible donations is also found on their Facebook page.
Current board members of Buddy Ball of Olla are Jill Roark, Judd Roark, Shanna Powell, Amanda Fenoli (founder Clint Austin’s sister), Briana Borland, JT Ranton and Larry Powell.
Photos courtesy of Alex Richmond.
