Number of Participants: 46
Hours Donated: 4
Value of Time Served: $1,555
Event Type: Health & Safety
Activity: Baseball
School: West Genesee Senior High School
Date: May 10, 2025
Location:
West Genesee High School
West Genesee Street, Camillus
NY
About:
On May 13, the West Genesee and Baldwinsville baseball teams came together for more than just a game—using their longstanding rivalry to shine a light on mental health awareness. Hosted at Onondaga Community College’s turf baseball field, the event featured both JV and varsity matchups, with the varsity game taking place under the lights at 7:00 PM.
In a powerful display of solidarity, players from both teams wore specially designed shirts during pregame warmups. West Genesee sported blue shirts representing Morgan’s Message, while Baldwinsville wore black in support of 15 for Life. Both organizations were founded by families of former college athletes who tragically lost their lives to mental health struggles and depression.
The event served not only to raise awareness but also to support these organizations financially. Shirts designed by Kick’s Clothing were sold at the event, with all proceeds benefiting Morgan’s Message and 15 for Life. The initiative was supported by the West Genesee Booster Club, OCC, and the broader community, all of whom turned out to support the cause and their teams.
This impactful evening underscored the role athletics can play in uniting communities and fostering meaningful conversations. Both programs plan to make this an annual Mental Health Awareness Game to continue educating teens and promoting mental wellness across the region.
