Emilio's Story

Emilio started playing baseball in UYM's Aurora Neighborhood Baseball League (ANBL) six years ago. He continued on, past little league to Pony League. While playing, Emilio developed a love for the game and learned valuable lessons from ANBL coach/mentors. Emilio reflects on his experiences in the ANBL, saying:

"The baseball program means a lot to me, because if I was not involved in it, I wouldn't be where I am right now...playing baseball and learning so many lessons from my coaches." While playing in the ANBL, Emilio learned valuable lessons about the game and life from his coaches and mentors. With regard to one ANBL coach ("Coach Don"), Emilio exclaimed: "I will never forget that man ever...He used to tell us to play baseball with heart, pride, and with our minds. He would tell us to never quit on ourselves or our team. He basically taught me the real meaning of baseball."

Emilio continues to pursue his love for baseball while playing on the Varsity baseball team at East Aurora High School. There, Emilio participates in sports, clubs, and volunteer activities in addition to volunteering in UYM’s after school reading mentoring program. Emilio does all of this while going to school full time and maintaining a part-time job on the weekends. We are excited for Emilio and proud that he continues on the path that he chose so many years go.

Emilio continues to learn and grow, while envisioning bright things for his future. When asked, Emilio stated that his plans for the future are: "to finish on the top 5% of my senior class and go to college to either be an architect or doctor."