Fun at the Buddy Ball Games in DoWEA Europe
KAISERSLAUTERN, Germany – For the past four years, an annual modified softball event has brought together students with significant disabilities from across the Kaiserslautern Military Community (KMC), Wiesbaden, and Ansbach schools for a day of inclusion, celebration, and joy. What began as a small community gathering has grown into a highly anticipated tradition, now welcoming more than 85 students from over 11 DoDEA schools each year.
The purpose of the event is simple: to create an inclusive, celebratory environment for students with significant disabilities, students for whom extracurricular and recreational opportunities can often be limited, particularly for families living overseas. By intentionally designing an event centered on accessibility, connection, and fun, the Buddy Ball Game provides teachers, students, and their families with a meaningful opportunity to feel recognized, valued, and celebrated.
The idea began with Kris Mihalic, special education teacher, and coach at Ramstein high school, who wanted to create opportunities for her students to become more involved in the school and community. The result; a partnership between participating students and members of the Ramstein High School Varsity Softball and Baseball teams. At the game, students are paired one‑on‑one with a varsity athlete, forming teams for a day of adaptive softball activities and shared experiences on the field. These partnerships foster meaningful connections, promote empathy, and support inclusive leadership among DoWEA student‑athletes.
The softball field reflects the celebratory spirit of the day with balloon arches, solo cup designs in the outfield fence, and a saber arch of colorful bats for the athletes to proudly walk under, courtesy of the Ramstein High School JROTC program. Banners proudly display the names of participating schools, transforming the space into a vibrant showcase of unity across districts. Live music from a DJ creates an energetic atmosphere, while ice cream trucks, snacks, and drinks ensure students and families can relax and enjoy every moment.
Community partnerships play a vital role in making this event possible. Hunt Brothers Pizza has generously donated pizzas each year, providing meals for students, families, and volunteers. The Ramstein Enlisted Spouses Association (RESA) has also been a steadfast supporter, awarding grants that help fund event t‑shirts, snacks, and food. Lasertex in Landstuhl has designed the event t‑shirts each year, and generously contributed a large Buddy Ball Game banner, which served as a focal point of the celebration. Ramstein Athletics has also created a championship banner that hangs in the school gymnasium, displaying each year the Buddy Game has been played. Just another example of how Ramstein is leading the way in inclusive practices in DoWEA.
Over the years, the Buddy Ball Game has become a favorite tradition within the KMC, with schools eagerly anticipating the opportunity to participate. The growth in attendance reflects not only the need for inclusive experiences but the strong relationships formed through collaboration between schools, families, and local businesses.
The Buddy Ball Game is one of two annual inclusive events designed for students with significant disabilities in the KMC and surrounding area at Ramstein High School. The second is a formal dance held each fall, offering students and their families an opportunity to celebrate, socialize, and enjoy a meaningful school experience in a welcoming environment. Together, these events reflect a broader mission to bring the military‑connected community together by celebrating diverse populations and intentionally spreading kindness and belonging.
As Ramstein High School and DoWEA continue to prioritize inclusive practices and student‑centered experiences, events like the Buddy Ball Game highlight the profound impact of community partnerships and collaboration. More than a day of softball, this event represents a shared commitment to ensuring that every student—regardless of ability—has opportunities to participate fully, feel valued, and be celebrated.
