Helen Hayes Hospital and New York Boulders Team Up for On-Field Adaptive Baseball Clinic

The New York State Department of Health’s Helen Hayes Hospital and the New York Boulders partnered to present an inclusive day of on-field baseball skills at the professional baseball team’s Clover Stadium on Saturday, June 20th. Individuals with physical disabilities, including those using manual and power wheelchairs, took to the field for batting, pitching, and catching practice with Boulders players and staff, as well as representatives of the physical rehabilitation hospital.

Gathering on the field, Helen Hayes Hospital’s Adapted Sports Coordinator Peter Gagliardo introduced participants to adaptive tools and techniques that enable individuals of all abilities to enjoy baseball and softball. Participants utilized soft, 16-inch balls, which are more easily caught without a glove, and batted from home plate from their wheelchairs or with the aid of assistive devices. Boulders players and staff also shared hands-on baseball expertise with all gathered and emphasized the importance of inclusivity in the sport.

"For many individuals with disabilities, playing on a professional baseball field is something they never imagined would be possible," said Peter Gagliardo, Adapted Sports Coordinator at Helen Hayes Hospital. "That’s why opportunities like this are so important. Through adaptive sports, we're able to remove barriers, build confidence, and show that everyone deserves the chance to be part of the game. We're grateful to the New York Boulders for helping make that experience a reality."

"Being an engaged community partner is central to the New York Boulders’ mission as Clover Stadium provides an impactful platform that offers unique and special opportunities for our neighbors," said Seth Cantor, the New York Boulders Director of Corporate Partnerships. "As such, we’re excited to welcome Helen Hayes Hospital’s adaptive baseball event back to the ballpark, as part of a partnership that we greatly appreciate!"

Following the clinic, participants and their families were invited to stay and watch the Boulders play the Trois-Rivières Aigles, as well as enjoy the evening’s fireworks show.

“Baseball generates a lot of enthusiasm here in New York and this opportunity is an exciting chance for individuals of all abilities to take part in the sport known as America’s Pastime," State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. "This baseball clinic is another demonstration of the excellent work being done by Helen Hayes Hospital’s Adapted Sports & Recreation Program and its integration with community partners."

The Adaptive Baseball Clinic was a special event presented by Helen Hayes Hospital’s Adapted Sports & Recreation Program—the region’s most comprehensive four-season adaptive recreation program. The program offers sports and recreation opportunities to individuals with disabilities of all experience levels, including sled hockey, rowing, golf, baseball, waterskiing, skiing, sailing, kayaking, handcycling, gardening, bowling, adaptive video gaming, billiards, and more. To learn more, visit the program online at www.helenhayeshospital.org/adapted-sports-recreation.

About Helen Hayes Hospital:

Helen Hayes Hospital is a national leader in physical rehabilitation, providing comprehensive inpatient, outpatient, and specialty services for individuals recovering from stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, amputation, orthopedic, cardiopulmonary, neurological, and other disabling conditions. Founded in 1900, the hospital has served as a center of excellence in rehabilitation medicine for more than 126 years, combining innovation, expertise, and compassionate care to help patients achieve their highest level of function and independence. Operated by the New York State Department of Health, Helen Hayes Hospital remains dedicated to improving lives through exceptional rehabilitative care. For more information, visit www.helenhayeshospital.org.

About the New York Boulders:

The New York Boulders are celebrating their 15^th season of Professional Baseball as part of the Frontier League, the oldest and largest active independent professional baseball league in North America and an official Partner League of Major League Baseball (MLB). Founded as the Rockland Boulders in 2011, the franchise rebranded as the New York Boulders in advance of the 2020 season. Proud to be part of the rich history of professional baseball in the New York City region, the team expects to welcome its 2-millionth fan to Clover Stadium in Pomona this year. The Boulders are committed to providing superior customer service and quality, affordable family entertainment experiences and impactful community events for the greater New York Metropolitan area, Lower Hudson Valley and northeast New Jersey. https://nyboulders.com