Why I Love the Phillies – David

My name is David. I’m 37 years old and blind since birth. I live in Wernersville, PA, which is ten miles west of Reading. I’ve been a season ticket holder of the Reading Fightin Phils since 1989, and have the same seat since 1994.

I attended the Overbrook School for the Blind in Philadelphia, and instantly fell in love with the Phillies. Listening to baseball on the radio, if described well, I can still picture in my mind what it is like to see a great diving catch, or climbing the fence to rob a home run, or a majestic Ryan Howard home run. For 20+ years of my life, Harry, Richie, Andy and Wheels have been like extended family. I never miss listening to a game. We’ve had our share of bad years for sure, but 1993, even with the disappointing end made way for the spectacular run we just witnessed culminating with the Parade in 2008.

I can also say that I got to meet Ryan Howard in person in 2004 when he broke the Reading Phillies and Reading baseball record for homers. My family and I got to present Ryan with an award from the fans on the field. I still have the autographed picture. I was also there when Darren Ruf went on his run, and set the new home run record of his own.

Let’s hope the Phillies can return to form in 2013, and have a great season. Regardless of the outcome, I will always remain loyal because I bleed Phillies red – they’re in my heart and soul forever!