The Bedford County Adaptive Sports Program was created to ensure that no child is unable to participate in sports due to their abilities. A.J. Lacy, the Bedford County Parks and Recreation Athletic Coordinator, came up with the idea for the program. It has been beneficial for children like six-year-old Eli Dudley, who is non-verbal and uses a wheelchair.

Eli’s father, Matt Dudley, expressed how important it is for his son to have the opportunity to have a normal kid experience and just have fun. The program initially started with around seven kids playing basketball, then expanded to soccer, and now has 25 kids playing baseball this spring. The team is named the Warriors, and they practice every Sunday with Coach Amanda Craig.

Coach Craig mentioned that the program brings the love of the sport back, emphasizing that it is not competitive but just for fun. It provides a similar experience to playing outside with friends as a child. The program not only brings joy to Eli and other kids like him but also to their families, like Eli’s father.

Seeing Eli on the t-ball field in his little uniform was a tearful moment for Dudley. The program is making a positive impact on the children involved and their families. Copyright 2024 by WSLS 10 – All rights reserved.