The Padres Knock Autism Acceptance Out of the Park!

Two Little League baseball players who have received speech and occupational therapy services from Easterseals SoCal stepped onto the field with the San Diego Padres in April for Autism Acceptance Night at Petco Park—truly knocking it out of the park.

Both devoted fans of the team had a role to play before the start of the game: Enzo confidently delivered the ceremonial first pitch, while Mario kicked off the game with an enthusiastic, “Play ball!”

Finding Confidence on the Field

“Confidence and social connection have not always come easily for Enzo,” said his mother, Suzan. “But since stepping onto the Little League baseball field, he has blossomed tremendously, following directions with more focus and determination. It's not just the game he loves the most, it's the camaraderie—the high-fives, the friendships and the feeling of truly belonging.

“Since beginning therapy sessions with Easterseals, he’s thrived,” she continued. “He has surpassed many goals, pours his heart into whatever he does and I’m so proud of him.  He’s very lucky to be with Easterseals.”

Finding His Voice

Mario began speech and occupational therapy during the pandemic through virtual sessions. At three years old, he spoke fewer than 10 words. Through dedication and support, he made remarkable progress—graduating from the program just prior to the game.

In the weeks leading up to his big day, Mario practiced his role with his speech therapist until he felt “confident and ready to go,” his mother, Delia, shared.

“Mario spoke less than 10 words when he started at Easterseals,” she recalled. “Now, at almost 8 years old, he has far surpassed where we ever thought he would be. He’s able to socialize and has reached the point where he can proudly say, ‘Play ball!’”

From first words to first pitches, those are the kinds of home runs that Easterseals is proud to help make possible.