Some moments are about more than a game. For Nate, his Big Jeff, and Nate’s Little, Asher, a trip to the ballpark became a memory they will all treasure, and a powerful reminder of how mentorship can shape a life.
On September 19, the trio took to the field at a Tampa Bay Rays game as part of the TD SYNNEX Double Play initiative, which selected Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay as its charity of choice. Following a special check presentation, Asher stepped onto the field to throw out the first pitch, right to his Big, Nate.
For Nate, the moment carried an extra layer of meaning. Early in his own mentoring relationship with Jeff, Nate had the opportunity to stand on that same field and throw the first pitch to his Big. Jeff was there for Nate through the years, offering encouragement, support, guidance, and, most importantly, the consistency of having a caring adult in his corner. Nate knows firsthand the difference a Big can make in a young person’s life.
Now, years later, Nate has the opportunity to provide that same kind of support for Asher. Sharing the experience with his Little created a full-circle moment, one that reflects how the impact of a mentoring relationship can extend far beyond the time a Big and Little spend together. Nate experienced the power of having someone believe in him, and today, he gets to be that person for Asher.
For Asher, getting to throw the first pitch was a moment he won’t soon forget.
“It was really special to throw the first pitch,” Asher shared. “I’m excited I got to keep the ball I threw. This is my fifth collectible ball, and I’m really excited to add it to my collection.”
But the significance of the day went far beyond stepping onto a Major League field or adding a new ball to a collection. It was about creating a BIG memory with someone Asher knows will show up for him, someone who listens, encourages him, celebrates his accomplishments, and makes time for the moments that matter.
Thanks to the generosity of TD SYNNEX and the Tampa Bay Rays, the Double Play initiative is helping Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay create more opportunities for young people across our nine-county service area. Their support helps make moments like Nate and Asher’s possible, while giving more youth the opportunity to experience the lasting impact of having a Big in their corner.
Interested in becoming a Big? Click here to learn more.
