Saturday, August 17th, marks a significant milestone—the 10th Annual Safe At Home Game at the Georgia Tech Russ Chandler Stadium. This year, for the first time, I will be stepping onto the field to play in the game. It’s been over 20 years since I last played baseball, but with this being such a monumental celebration, I couldn’t resist the opportunity to join in the fun.
In previous years, I’ve enjoyed hanging out in the stands, chatting with fans, and watching the game from my shaded seat. I would often look out at the players on the field and think, “One day, I’m going to join them for a game.” Well, that day has come. At 48 years old, I’m not getting any younger, but I’m in excellent shape thanks to my training for the AJC Peachtree Road Race.
Since February 2024, I’ve been working out with Brandon Butler at Pinnacle Fitness twice a week, preparing for my fifth consecutive Peachtree Road Race on July 4th, 2024. I started my training journey at 235 lbs, and I’m now down to my professional baseball playing weight of 215 lbs. It’s been a significant investment of time and money, but the results have been worth it.
If everything goes as planned, I’ll be playing in the outfield alongside LEAD Ambassador alums Desmond Stegall and Tyler Williams. This will be a special moment for me because my love for baseball began when I was just 8 years old in 1984, spending time at my grandparents’ house at 1737 Beecher Street in SW Atlanta. Desmond’s mother, Annie, who is older than me, and Tyler’s mother, Demetria, who is also older than me, both spent time at my grandparents’ house. Demetria’s father was someone I looked up to as a kid, making this connection even more meaningful.
I had the privilege of coaching Desmond in baseball, and both Desmond and I coached Tyler. All three of us play the outfield position, so having us all in the outfield at the same time will be a fantastic experience.
Don’t miss out on this special occasion. Join us on August 17th at the Georgia Tech Russ Chandler Stadium for the 10th Annual Safe At Home Game. It’s going to be a memorable day filled with fun, nostalgia, and community spirit.
See you there!
