Red Sox Athletic Training Staff Hosts Boston-Area Youngsters at Fenway Park
On Tuesday, May 6, 2025, Fenway Park opened its gates not for a baseball game, but for a cause that transcends sports. The Boston Red Sox hosted the inaugural event of the 2025 PLAY (Promoting a Lifetime of Activity for Youth) Campaign, a nationwide initiative spearheaded by the Professional Baseball Athletic Trainers Society (PBATS) in collaboration with Major League Baseball Charities, the Taylor Hooton Foundation, Henry Schein Cares, and Song for Charlie. This campaign aims to combat childhood obesity and promote healthy lifestyles among young people across the United States.
Over 100 local kids from the Boston area participated in the event, engaging in a series of interactive activities designed to educate and inspire. The Red Sox athletic training staff—Brad Pearson, Brandon Henry, Masai Takahashi, Jon Jochim, Anthony Cerundolo, David Herrera, and Kevin Avilla—led the on-field sessions. These athletic training professionals provided hands-on demonstrations and guidance, emphasizing the importance of physical activity and proper health practices.
The event also featured educational segments from key partners of the PLAY Campaign. Representatives from the Taylor Hooton Foundation addressed the dangers of appearance and performance-enhancing substances, highlighting the risks associated with steroid use. The Henry Schein Cares Foundation contributed by offering resources and information on maintaining overall health and wellness. Additionally, Song for Charlie, a nonprofit organization, provided crucial insights into the dangers of counterfeit prescription drugs, particularly those laced with fentanyl, aiming to raise awareness among the youth about this pressing issue.
This event marked the first stop of the 2025 PLAY Campaign’s summer tour, which plans to visit all 30 Major League Baseball stadiums between May and September. Each event is tailored to engage local communities, offering young participants the opportunity to learn from professional athletic trainers and health experts. The campaign’s holistic approach addresses various aspects of youth health, from physical fitness to mental well-being and substance abuse prevention.
The Boston Red Sox’s commitment to community engagement and youth development was evident in their hosting of this event. By leveraging the iconic Fenway Park as a platform for education and empowerment, the organization continues to demonstrate its dedication to fostering positive change beyond the baseball diamond.
As the PLAY Campaign continues its journey across the country, the collaborative efforts of PBATS, Major League Baseball, and their partners aim to leave a lasting impact on the lives of young individuals, promoting healthier choices and active lifestyles for generations to come.
For more information about the PLAY Campaign, visit https://pbats.com/play/.