A new T-ball league in Lodi is giving children on the autism spectrum the opportunity to participate in sports in a supportive and understanding environment. The Lodi T-Rexes held their first practice recently at Lodi High School’s baseball field, welcoming children of all ages. The program was created to provide a space where children with autism can enjoy athletics while receiving the support they need.
Jose “Jojo” Duenas created the league after learning of his three-year-old’s recent diagnosis of Autism; he had searched for youth athletic leagues in his area, which included little or no opportunity for youth with autism to participate. The inspiration to create an inclusive environment where children on the autism spectrum could have fun while being part of a team became apparent to him when he realized he was looking at over 50 kids at his initial practice as a football coach; he had expected around a dozen participants.
“Our goal is to provide a positive experience for children and their families,” Duenas said. “We want kids to celebrate their abilities and for parents to feel supported. Seeing the smiles and hearing the stories of these families is all the motivation we need.”
Community Support and Volunteer Training
To ensure the program meets the specific needs of each child, Duenas consulted with applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapists and local baseball coaches. Volunteers underwent training to understand the athletes’ unique challenges and strengths. High school students, including those from rival schools, supported the event, demonstrating the power of community collaboration.
Launch
When the program was first implemented, athletes cycled through four activity stations: batting practice, throwing and catching, home run derby, and hydration. Local volunteers assisted children with transitioning between the various stations. Parents, grandparents, family members, etc., were cheering their kids on from the bleachers. The families indicated appreciation for being able to connect with other local families and for seeing their children participate in the same fun sports-based activities as their peers.
Jennifer Jurado, who attended with her grandson, Julian Camberos, said, “To be able to meet other families in the autism community and see our children represented and included is amazing. Acceptance and understanding are so important for our kids and loved ones.”
Expanding Opportunities for Inclusion
The first practice drew approximately 150–200 attendees, including families from outside the immediate area who are interested in replicating the program. Duenas hopes to eventually expand the league to other communities, providing similar opportunities for children with autism nationwide.
The Lodi T-Rexes program is free to participate in, and each child receives a jersey. Families can register through the league’s Instagram page. The league also received full funding for this season and the next through an online fundraiser, ensuring that accessibility and inclusion remain a priority.
Supporting Families and Children with Autism in Sacramento
At Sacramento ABA Therapy, we celebrate programs like the Lodi T-Rexes that create inclusive spaces for children on the autism spectrum. Our center offers ABA therapy, educational guidance, and family resources to help children thrive and build confidence in daily activities and social interactions.
Families who would like to learn more about therapy options, education support and/or other community programs may contact us at Sacramento ABA Therapy Center to find out more about what services are available to children with autism.
