Softball brings “No Limits” athletes and Lafayette firefighters and police officers together

LAFAYETTE, Ga. (WDEF) – It was a friendly game of softball on Friday that had Lafayette firefighters and police officers out at the fields with adults and children with special needs.

“We were initially invited by the management of the No Limits organization a couple years ago and after the first year all of the firefighters were hooked. They had such a good time. It’s just a very rewarding experience,” Lafayette Fire Chief Stacey Meeks said.

“No Limits” was started around 10 years ago.

It’s geared toward people with special needs and gives them the opportunity to take a swing at sports.

Each week they play with groups in the community.

“It’s wonderful for the kids because they feel like they’re getting to experience something that most typical children get to experience, little league ball and then it helps other parents kind of meet and socialize,” “No Limits” Co-Founder Michal Jones said.

“To meet other parents that are going through the same things, understand the therapies you’re going through, understand all the doctor’s appointments and things like that it’s just very comforting and it just helps to build that community,” Jones said.

Around 28 athletes are signed up to play softball this year, including Auston Dearing who plays with his family member MaKenzie.

“I love it. I like going against all these other people, and it’s a lot of fun,” Auston said.

Taylor Gooch said she has a learning disability and is epileptic, but she has not let her challenges hold her back.

She’s currently in college with a 3.8 GPA and has plans to become a special needs teacher.

Gooch helps out with “No Limits.”

“People think that children with disabilities should be kept away and they don’t really put children with disabilities in sports and so having all these kids and adults come out and be a part of something and they can be themselves and it’s not really competitive is so much fun,” Gooch said.

It’s also linking up people with special needs and their family with public safety members.

It’s a way to strengthen relationships and bring the community together.

If you you’re interested in playing with “No Limits” or want more information check out: http://cityoflafayettega.org/recreation/parks-and-recreation/