Just 17 hours after the first pitch of the spring season was thrown, the Lady Jags softball program continues to emerge in their pride, tradition, and excellence. The Lady Jags decided to spread the love to the ones in need at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital this past Valentine’s Day.
Head Coach, Gaddy Nuñez took on the position this year after 10 years of being an assistant coach for the varsity team. As he took on this leadership role, he immediately knew that he wanted to make a difference in the community.
The difference he wanted to make within the program was to help those who can’t play on the field, that’s when Gaddy’s mind went straight to the amazing Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital.
Aiming to bring a spark of joy into these kids’ lives, the Lady Jags Softball Program gathered on a day of love to have a toy drive for the kids.
As the girls arrived at the hospital, they gathered around the entrance. Unfortunately the team was unable to physically hand out the toys, the Lady Jags filled a cart to the brim with all different kinds of toys for the children.
Donation Coordinator Paige Cos explained the importance of these donations, “at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, we believe that the power of play promotes positive healing.”
Shortly after explaining when the toys are given to the kids is when they achieve medical milestones, like last chemotherapy or after a long surgery.
A new tradition in the making, the Lady Jags have put their heart into charity work and giving back to the community. Immediately before leaving the hospital Coach Gaddy Nuñez told his team “this is an initiative we’ll carry on going forward.”
As the Lady Jags are continuing to leave a mark on the community, and smiles on kids’ faces, these charities and donations will never be forgotten. The Lady Jags softball program continues to represent Pines Charter on and off the field with their same motto, “ Pride, Tradition, and Excellence.”