Sports
Students Help Less Fortunate Play Ball
Brandon Cowen collecting baseball items to give kids a chance to 'Batter-Up'.
Name: Brandon Cowen
Grade: 7
School: Ramapo Ridge Middle School
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Whiz Kid’s accomplishment: Brandon is asking for donations of used or new baseball equipment for the Pershing Field Little League and Babe Ruth Leagues in Jersey City, New Jersey, as part of the Angels in the Outfield program, founded by Ian Curry
What type of baseball items are needed?
Find out what's happening in Mahwahfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
BC: “Baseballs, softballs, bats, gloves, mitts, batting gloves, cleats, clothing, helmets, caps and catcher's equipment. People can also donate money or gift cards to sporting goods stores.”
Why did you choose to help Angels in the Outfield Program?
BC: “I play for the Mahwah 13U Travel Baseball Team. I remembered the drive from last year and wanted to help. I think every kid should play baseball and knowing that kids don't have their own equipment is something I want to stop. It is sad that some kids are not given the opportunity to play the sport I love. I can't wait to see the smiles on the faces of the boys and girls when they get their equipment."
What’s your favorite baseball team?
BC: “I love the Yankees. Derek Jeter is my favorite player.”
Where can items be dropped off?
BC: “Items can be dropped off anytime at 34 Alcott Road in Mahwah. There is a bin outside.”
Can you pick-up items?
BC: “Yes, please call 201-512-9892 to arrange for local pickup. For more information email AngelsintheOutfield2@yahoo.com.
When was Angels in the Outfield program started?
BC: “The Angels in the Outfield Program was started last year, by Mahwah High School junior, Ian Curry. It’s an annual Spring drive to help children who need baseball equipment in Jersey City.”
When is the deadline for the collection?
BC: “The deadline for donations is April 30, 2011.”
Patch spoke to founder, Ian Curry and asked him why he created Angels in the Outfield.
IC: “I created Angels in the Outfield for a few reasons. First off, I had heard of kids living nearby not having a bat or even a ball to play baseball with. That really made me think about what I can do to help that. So, I went into my garage and found a lot of old, but still good baseball equipment. Then the idea hit me, if I have all this extra equipment, there must be a lot of other people with all this other equipment. I wanted to make a difference in someone's life and what better way to do it than with the game I love, baseball.”
