It is not uncommon to see baseball as part of the Special Olympics, but rarely do blind athletes take part in the sport. John Sikorra lost his eyesight as a child as a result of Batten disease, which also took many of his cognitive skills. A senior at Chaminade High, Sikorra spent his first three years of high school listening to games, wishing that he could be part of it all. This year his wish was granted and he became part of the team, only wanting to earn a varsity letter to make it official. But to earn a varsity letter, an athlete is required to compete in at least one official play and John was never able to do so because of his disability. But yesterday that didn’t matter when, in the championship game against Alemany High School, both teams gave up an out so John could bat. Accompanied by his father, John stepped up to bat and made contact. They both ran around the bases hand in hand to a cheering crowd. This just goes to show that sports should not discriminate. Nothing should hold athletes back from doing what they love.
M. Moh
KIN 332I Section 02
2 comments:
This is an amazing story that should provide inspiration to all participating in sport. I think we too easily forget the purpose we initially began participating in sports as a child. We need to maintain the youthfulness of playing just for fun with no disappointment for loses. It is truly a joy to be able to participate in the sports we love. We should not take that for granted.
John is also an inspiration to all those that feel unable to play due to a disability. While there is still so much lacking in terms of sports for those with disabilities, there are many programs emerging that provide the opportunity for play. This is something I only recently discovered through our class studies. Although we do not hear much about Special Olympics and Paraolympics, they do exist and attract thousands of participants.
Anat Journo
Kin 332.2
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