Richard Woodard, a beloved member of the AMBUCS community, passed away in 2022, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, dedication, and support for the Challenger Baseball program in Danville, IL. His unwavering commitment to this activity inspired countless individuals and created a space where all players could experience the joy of the game, regardless of their abilities. In 2007, Richard wrote a heartfelt piece about the importance of being a Buddy for Challenger Baseball. His words, written from the perspective of a player, express the profound impact that a Buddy can have. Here is Richard’s tribute, in his own words:
“Because You Are My Buddy”
“You might not be able to see or understand me at times, but know that I am so very happy you are there, just simply being my buddy today. I may not move like other kids, may not smile, run, walk, or play like them, but make it known that your smile goes a long way, because you are my buddy today. Although it might be only one day you are there, you allow me to enjoy things that I normally would not be able to do. Because of buddies like you. When you help me hit the ball, like the regular kids do, I feel so real, so normal, as you help me from first, then second, third, then home. I think again… Why do you do this… Because that is what buddies do. You allow me this moment in time to have fun, laugh, and play with others of my peers. You allow me to feel, act, see, and play this game you call baseball. Because that is what buddies do. No matter how we get around the bases, walk, run, crawl, or ride, a special memory is created because of buddies like you. When we are in the field and you play catch with us, yet another memory is being molded and made permanent, because that is what buddies do. It may not seem much to you, as you play catch with me, even for a moment or two, but this gives me much joy and happiness, as only a buddy can do. So as the games wind down, we all return to our day-to-day life, let it be known to all, that my life is better because of buddies like you.”
– Richard Woodard, June 2007