Kernels give back to the community

Playing baseball is just one aspect of being a Cedar Rapids Kernels player.

In addition to hitting, pitching, and throwing, the Kernels players also spend a great deal of time interacting in the community.

Players sign up for various events on the player appearance board in the team locker room. So far, players have visited elementary schools, Kennedy High School, and the Cedar Rapids Science Station. They also plan to visit hospitals, youth baseball teams, and more schools throughout the season.

“It gives us a chance to give back to the community and make an influence in other peoples lives,” said relief pitcher Dakota Robinson, who attended several elementary schools for the Kernels Summer Reading Program. “The fans come out and see the baseball side of things every day at the field, but being visible in the community shows people that its more than just sports that make a person who they are.

For Kernels third baseman Jeremy Cruz, making appearances at various places is a way to give back to the people of Cedar Rapids who support the team, win or lose.

Cruz has spent parts of the past two seasons playing in Cedar Rapids, and he's visited elementary schools and children in the pediatric oncology wing at the UI Hospitals and Clinics during his time here. He even met a young boy and his family in the hospital that he continues to remain in contact with.

“We're lucky to play this great game,” Cruz said. “It's great to see a little kid and make his or her day because a lot of people in this world suffer. It's always good to give back.”