Wheeling, W. Va. - According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) in 2021, 1 in 44 children would be diagnosed as being somewhere on the autism spectrum. The Wheeling University Softball team is out to help raise awareness for this disorder throughout the month of April as they celebrate Autism Acceptance Month. All month long, they will be raising money and awareness through special fundraising events and on-field ceremonies to show that everyone should be accepted no matter their conditions.

For Wheeling's Head Softball coach Caressa DeRossett it is a joy to be able to honor those on the autism spectrum during the month and to help raise awareness for such a great cause that hits so close to home.

"Autism Acceptance month hits very close to home for me," said DeRossett. "My little brother was diagnosed with autism at the age of five. At first It wasn't easy for my family, we were worried this would limit him. I know now how special and on top of the world the kids feel being a part of the team and our games. Parents have expressed how uplifting it is that we have this event to invite children and their families to be a part of these games. Our team absolutely loves having the children around and creating this experience for them."

Some of the ways that Wheeling Softball is raising awareness will be seen when fans come out to the J.B. Chambers I-470 complex for home games this month. The Cardinals will be wearing special autism jerseys for every home game in April. This will include doubleheaders against Mountain East Conference (MEC) North opponents, including West Liberty, Frostburg State, and Fairmont State, as well as some non-conference games, including a doubleheader with Slippery Rock. Before the action gets started on the diamond, there will be pregame ceremonies that highlight people on the autism spectrum and just how great they can be.

Prior to every April home game, the team will look to honor 1-3 children that are on the autism spectrum. The honored children will be able to throw out the first pitch prior to the game and will also be sitting right next to the dugout for the duration of both contests. In addition, the team will wear a special ribbon with the child's favorite color and their name on it that will be worn for both games of the doubleheader.

The team also has a chance for fans to help raise money for the cause through their fundraising efforts. Throughout the month of April, the team has teamed up with the Augusta Levy Learning Center to sell puzzle pieces for $1 and t-shirts for $20. All puzzle pieces purchased will be hung in the entrance to the Alma Grace McDonough Center for everyone to see. 

If you have any questions about upcoming events, please contact Head Wheeling Softball Coach Caressa DeRossett by email at cderossett@wheeling.edu or by phone at (304) 243-8154.