Press Release: Piper’s Pals Provides Opportunity for Youth with Disabilities to Play Baseball
Burbank, CA (March 23, 2023) – On Saturday, April 1, 2023, at 11:00 a.m., the Parks and Recreation Department invites families, friends, and community members to welcome Piper’s Pals for their third season playing in the Hap Minor Baseball League. In coordination with the Youth Sports Section, Piper’s Pals provides a unique opportunity for a roster of players with disabilities to participate in the Coach Pitch Division. This event is free, open to the public, and will take place at George Izay Park, field number two, located at 1111 West Olive Avenue, Burbank, CA 91506.
“If you want to be inspired and witness the miracle of compassion and inclusion, please join us to cheer on our special needs team, Piper's Pals, and their buddies the, Wolfpack, as they take the field,” said Tiffany Nelson, head coach and 2016 Burbank Walk of Fame Inductee.
The fundamental principle behind this program is to advance “play equity”, the philosophy that sports opportunities should be available to all children regardless of socioeconomic, gender, physical and mental ability. The Sports Office leads by the principle that physical activity is vital to children's health, fitness, well-being, and self-esteem.
This year, long-time Burbank residents Glen and Ellen Gregos provided a league fee sponsorship for Piper’s Pals. The City of Burbank is proud to partner with Mr. and Mrs. Gregos and the Burbank Advisory Council on Disabilities to support young people living with disabilities by introducing children to the world of sports.
“The City of Burbank expresses gratitude to the Gregos family for their donation which will further our efforts to ensure every child in Burbank, no matter their ability, is able to enjoy the benefits of donning a jersey and playing sports,” said Marisa Garcia, Parks and Recreation Department Director. “We would also like to acknowledge the continued commitment of volunteer coach, Tiffany Nelson, for her years of service in support of children with special needs in Burbank.”
More information on Youth Sports can be found at https://www.burbankca.gov/web/parks-recreation/youth-sports, or by calling 818-238-5330.
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Website: www.burbankca.gov
About Burbank
Burbank is a diverse community of 106,800 residents. Billed as the “Media Capital of the World”, numerous media and entertainment companies are headquartered in Burbank including Warner Bros. Entertainment, The Walt Disney Company, Nickelodeon Animation Studios, Netflix Animation, and Cartoon Network Studios. With the Hollywood Burbank Airport located within the City, Burbank is a go-to destination for business and tourism. Additionally, Burbank is known for its walkable and safe neighborhoods, well-run school district, and “small town” charm.