BISMARCK, N.D. – For the second year in a row, the USA Patriots visited a state prison to play an exhibition match against the inmates.
Unlike last year, it was a beautiful sunny day in the nation’s capital. Last year, despite the rain, the first matchup was a huge success, raising $1,100 for the USA Patriots organization. This year, they surpassed that figure, but most importantly, it’s an opportunity to bring people together.
“It’s a softball game,” Lorenzo Pemberton said, “and an opportunity for people to come together and enjoy life.”
The event attracts a large turnout of players taking part in the games as well as residents and other spectators, creating a special atmosphere for first-timers.
“Oh man, this is amazing. I didn’t know what to expect. I know, you know, a lot of us just want to play ball and have fun and get outside and enjoy the sun,” Cody Rice said. “And you know, that’s all we want to do. I think it’s a great atmosphere, these guys are cheering for us and cheering for their team. It’s fun, it’s fun.”
For the second year in a row, the USA Patriots emerged victorious. Although the outcome of the game is not the most important part, both teams always look to win.
“Yeah, it’s competitive. Yeah, it’s competitive. Both teams really want to win,” Pemberton said. “I know my team does too. They love playing the sport and they love playing sports in general, so it’s definitely competitive.”
Everyone is excited to be a part of the event, whether they are attending the game or watching from the stands.
“I’ve been itching to get here so this will be a good warm-up before the tournament and I’m looking forward to it,” Rice said. “It’s going to get the guys fired up.”
Travis Collins, community resource manager for the North Dakota Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, said after two successful years, they look forward to hosting the event in the future.
