HANNIBAL, MO. -- Softball games for special needs children and adults start Sept. 15 in Hannibal.
DreamCatchers was established in 2007 by Matt Clark, after he learned about a similar program in in North Dakota.
Clark does not have a child with special needs, but he has an aunt with Down's Syndrome and a close family friend with autism.
"I've always had a special place in my heart for special needs kids and adults," Clark said.
Three softball games are scheduled for the last three Saturdays in September. The games consist of four innings with everyone getting to bat each inning. There are no outs or score.
"We break for lunch and then we play another game," Clark said. "The players have a great time. They don't want to stop."
About 25-30 players are expected to play in this year's games.
"We won't turn anyone away," Clark said.
Each player has a buddy, making sure the players don't get hurt.
"The buddies will sacrifice their bodies to keep the kids from getting hit by the ball," Clark said. "It's a blessing for the buddies, they learn so much just being a part of this."
The games are slated for Sept. 13, 22 and 29 at Huckleberry Park in Hannibal. In case of rain, the games will be played at Hannibal Evangelical Free Church at 245 N. Levering.
To volunteer or enroll a player, contact Matt Clark at 573-221-2085 or maclark@rallstech.net.s
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