AID client throws first pitch at Cougars game

We’ve all dreamed of it. Digging our feet into the mound, eyes of the crowd watching, the catcher gives the signal, you wind up and throw a beautiful pitch.

For St. Charles resident and Association for Individual Development client John Jennejahn, this dream came true May 12 when he was asked to throw out the first pitch at the Kane County Cougars game.

Staff, clients, family and friends of AID were on hand at the ballpark in celebration of the organization’s 50th anniversary.

As part of the celebration, a representative was asked to throw out the first pitch. John’s love of baseball was well known among the staff and several recommended him for the job. When he was asked if he’d like to deliver the ceremonial pitch, he smiled, pumped his fists into the air and shouted, “Yes!”

John made sure to get to the ballpark early that Thursday night; he was excited and anxious to throw out the first pitch. Down on the field, John was given a commemorative Cougars baseball and meet the team mascot, Ozzie. Ozzie walked with John out to the mound and helped pump up the crowd in anticipation of the pitch. With the crowd cheering, John wound up and delivered a strong, left-handed strike to Cougars catcher Ryan Jenkins.

The Cougars, unfortunately, were not able to pull out a win, but the more than 80 AID staff, clients and family members had a great time. None more so then John, who held onto his commemorative baseball all night while smiling and enjoying the game.