Bobby Boynton, 51, has been the announcer for the Challenger Little League for 24 years. He said the expressions on the kids faces when they hit the ball is what keeps him coming back year after year.
“They didn’t have this when I was in school,” Boynton said. “Back in the ’70’s and ’80’s they didn’t include kids like me in things. I could watch other friends play but I couldn’t get out there and do it myself.”
Boynton has been a sports fanatic his entire life. Confined to a wheelchair, he said he doesn’t let his disability get in the way of his passion for the game.
“You keep on truckin’ everyday and maybe tomorrow will be better,” Boynton said.
He said he studies his favorite baseball announcer, the legendary Vin Scully, for ideas on how to cheer the kids on. His commitment to the league isn’t lost on the players and their parents.
“I like the way he loves to announce,” Challenger player Jake Miller said. “I like the way he announces me up to bat, that makes it so cool.”
“Bobby just gives the kids the want to be here, the inspiration to be here,” Challenger parents Jon Miller said. “Makes them feel that they are doing really well, which they do, and even the parents appreciate Bobby. He gives the kids the extra little umph that they don’t have, but that they deserve.”
Boynton said he likes to keep it all about the kids, and the best part is seeing them succeed year after year.
“As the kids grow up, getting to see them grow up, and go to their graduation, and go to Tech or whatever school they choose to go to, knowing that you had some small part in getting them where they’re at today,” Boynton said.
