The sadness in the voice of Mike Martin was almost palpable. Martin, who along with his wife Kim, have been the flag bearers of Bridgeport’s Challenger League baseball division since it started 18 years ago, was clearly not in high spirits.

 

As the head of the baseball league that serves nearly 100 youngsters with various physical and mental challenges, Martin knows the league is something – that for many – is the highlight of their year. In particular, the opening day ceremony was the big event where those children were treated like rock stars.

 

When opening day was scratched this year due to COVID-19, and the reality of getting in any games regardless of the situation changing due to so many underlying health issues of those involved, Martin’s voice gave way his feelings. He just was hopeful something could be done.

 

Now, something is going to be done.

 

After reading the article about the cancelation on Connect-Bridgeport, individuals from the community and the city discussed something to do. That something to do to honor the players in the league is on tap for June 6.

 

And the city is inviting the community to come out and make a big deal of it. On that day, a parade will be held for players in the league through Bridgeport.

 

“I think noticing all of the people that were so disappointed was what led to a committee being formed to see what could be done,” said City Engineer Beth Fox. “We want to give them a reason to smile like they do on opening day.”

 

Fox has a unique perspective. Her son Eli, a senior at Bridgeport High School and a very popular one at that, is a past participant. Fox knows first hand just how important the opening day and the entire season is for those that participate.

 

“One thing I’ll never forget is opening day of Challenger League. The amount of smiles and happy kids is so spontaneous and everywhere that it’s overwhelming in such a great way,” said Fox. “I never have seen anything like that in my life.”

 

Now, Fox said she is hoping the parade can replicate the smiles if not the actual chance to play baseball.

 

“Without the league it doesn’t leave much opportunity to participate for many of those involved in a lot of other things,” said Fox. “The goal, from the city’s standpoint, is to bring joy to these kids and for those who come out and watch to bring joy to them. Trust me, you will be smiling.”

 

Fox said the meeting to put this first-time event together was also a first. She said it lasted 15 minutes.

 

“It’s the quickest meeting I’ve ever been involved with because when the idea was brought up for discussion there wasn’t a naysayer in the group,” said Fox. “It’s such a great thing to know everyone on that committee was 100 percent in favor of doing this.”

 

On June 6, the lineup of cars will begin at 9 a.m. in the Bridgeport United Methodist Church parking lot. The Simpson Creek Baptist Church lot will be utilized if necessary, said Fox.

 

The parade will begin at 9:30 a.m. with vehicles entering Philadelphia Avenue and heading toward Virginia Avenue. Once there, city police will control traffic to allow cars to continue straight ahead toward Johnson Avenue. The parade will conclude at Bridgeport High School.

 

“We hope to have people out there cheering them on,” said Fox.

 

Fox said candy will not be allowed to be thrown out due to the COVID-19 pandemic. She also said people will be asked to observe social distancing and be respectful of others on the parade route.

 

“Our hope is to exceed the excitement of opening day, and that’s where the community can make it happen,” said Fox.

 

The Bridgeport Police will lead the parade. Fox said the Bridgeport Fire Department will be at the tail end of the parade.

 

As for the participants in the parade, Fox said they can come as they area, wear past uniforms, wear other uniforms, put signs on their cars or even decorate their cars. She said community members can make signs too.

 

Although a rain date has not been scheduled, there will be one announced soon. Check back to Connect-Bridgeport for the status of that.

 

Editor's Note: Top three photos show past fun from a Challenger League opening day, while the two individuals responsible for nearly two decades of smiles - league organizers Mike and Kim Martin - are shown below. Photos by Ben Queen Photography.