Here’s the kinda story I love.
July 11th, the Salt Lake Sidewinders’ under 12 team became the first Utah team to win a championship at th
e Cooperstown Dreams Park in Cooperstown, New York, home of the Baseball Hall of Fame. The Sidewinders won on a three-run walk off home run by Ethan Fowlks. Their accomplishment is newsworthy, but when you get to know more about Ethan, the story becomes extraordinary.
Ethan was diagnosed with autism at the age of two. His supportive parents have helped him discover his capabilities, one of which is playing baseball. Playing baseball and being a part of a team has been helpful for Ethan as he and his family cope with the challenges of autism.
His team trailed 2-0 in the final inning and were down to their final two outs. There were runners on first and second when Ethan came up to bat. The rest, they say, is history. His dad said, “I knew that when he stepped to the plate he had a shot.” Ethan was just as confident as his father. He crushed a pitch over the right field wall. With one swing he helped his team make history and claim Utah’s first championship in Cooperstown, and he did it with a walk-off home run.
It was an emotional moment for Ethan and his teammates, but especially for his family. “This is an absolute dream come true,” his father said. “There was not a dry eye, at least in my family, as we celebrated together.” Ethan and those who witnessed his home run will never forget it. “Probably one of the most wonderful experiences of my life.”
What’s your greatest moment or memory? Send us a picture or video of a “shining moment in time” from your life.
