Kane County Cougars visit Marklund for sixth annual adaptive T-ball game

Posted September 03, 2025 11:21 pm

By Dawn Lassiter-Brueske, Marklund

The Kane County Cougars baseball team visited the Marklund Hyde Center for the sixth year, playing an adaptive T-ball game with the residents. Courtesy of Marklund

The Kane County Cougars, reigning champions of the American Association of Professional Baseball league, brought their full roster to the Marklund Hyde Center campus in Geneva for the sixth year.

With perfect weather and unmatched enthusiasm, the Cougars hit the newly renovated Marklund Baseball field ready for some unforgettable adaptive T-ball.

Casey Crosby, a Kaneland High alumni who returned to the Kane County Cougars team this summer, assists Marklund resident Jenna V. at the plate. Courtesy of Marklund

Big hits, close plays and even a few pickles kept the energy high. Marklund residents love when these friends step up to the plate with them, bringing adaptive sports to life with big-league heart.

They especially enjoyed welcoming hometown players Casey Crosby and Westin Muir, former students from Kaneland and St. Charles North high schools.

The visit was arranged through Marklund’s volunteer program.

Westin Muir, a St. Charles North graduate in his fourth season on the mound for the Kane County Cougars, helps Marklund resident Rosie B. around the bases. Courtesy of Marklund

Marklund offers volunteer opportunities for individuals, businesses, schools, clubs, or groups seeking to engage with the community.

This may include: outings taking residents into the community with staff; visits to parks, petting zoo, shopping, movies, bowling, and more; in-house activities which are offered throughout the day and weekends; arts & crafts, games, reading, sports games, gardening; special events; summer games, community gift opening, movie night, cultural and holiday celebrations, baseball games in Geneva.

Or do you have a special talent to share? Brighten the resident’s day with your special gift such as music, dance, theater, or singing.

Founded in 1954, Marklund offers residential, educational and day services to children and adults with serious and profound developmental disabilities at locations in Elgin, Bloomingdale and Geneva. Visit www.marklund.org.

Zach Veen, a pitcher with the Kane County Cougars, helps Marklund resident Maurice P. get ready for play in the adaptive T-ball game. Courtesy of Marklund

Article Comments

Article Comments

Guidelines: Keep it civil and on topic; no profanity, vulgarity, slurs or personal attacks. People who harass others or joke about tragedies will be blocked. If a comment violates these standards or our terms of service, click the "flag" link in the lower-right corner of the comment box. To find our more, read our FAQ.