The Vacant Centerfield
In the second game of today’s doubleheader, Abilene High School had no one in centerfield. At least not for the first pitch.
On January 16, 2005, two members of the AHS baseball team, Chris Cope and Chris Perkins—sixth graders at the time— were sitting in the back seat of an SUV that rolled over on I-20 while returning from Winterfest. They and five other people were treated for injuries sustained in the accident.
The first pitch with centerfield empty
The other sixth grade boy in the back seat with them, Brody Bourland, didn’t survive the wreck.
Now, six years later, the baseball coaches, knowing how much Brody loved baseball and how he’d likely be playing in his senior year if he were still alive, had him announced as the starting center fielder. After one pitch, the regular center fielder entered the game.
Time was then called by our coach, who asked the Bourland family to come onto the field. There a jersey was presented to them with Brody’s name and Little League number (#7) on it.
As a parent who came perilously close to losing his own son, I choked back tears as I watched the bittersweet moment for the Bourlands. And I gave thanks that people don’t forget Brody’s important life.
Diane told me about all they did to honor Brody and the Bourland family. So glad to know that he hasn’t been forgotten. Sweet moments!!
This is stunningly beautiful. Thank you for sharing.
My heart quivered when I read this. I am so thankful for the Bourlands that Brody was remembered.
That says so much about this community, as well as the Bourland family. Wow. Thanks for sharing. Hate that my family will soon be leaving this area.
The loss of a child never really quits hurting. But God can still do beautiful things in the wake of that pain. Thank you for sharing this moment with those of us who weren’t there. These are times I see God’s kingdom puncturing the ways of this world, a reminder and a hope for days to come.
Much love to you all. <3
Thank you for sharing this Mike….a sweet honor for Brody and the Bourlands who I have never met but pray for often.
What a great story and great way to remember someone’s lost child. Great news!
Thanks for sharing Mike.
Thanks for sharing. Glad Brody was remembered in this way.
What a beautifully poignant moment! Thank you for sharing this loving tribute.
Our son Mack Dennis grew up with Brett. They played ball together and did all things that teenage boys do. The Bourland family is very special to us and I wish I could have been there to witness the event. We were there along with Mack at the memorial service in 2005. We mourned with the Bourlands then and they mourned with us in September of 2007 when Mack was killed in an automobile accident. Thank you for posting about the celebration. My wife had read the comment by Doan (Brody’s grandmother) on face book so we were already aware but was good to hear you tell it from your perspective.
Paul and Jean Dennis
What a glorious way to express love, support and shared memories and pain!
I’m still crying…my love for the Bourlands just won’t let me stop. That love also extends to your family Mike, to the Childers….to every family touched by this roll over accident. I praise the LORD for the healing of those that survived and continue to pray especially for Jen, Brett, and their other sons’ healing as well.
When I read this to my wife I was choking back the tears. Such a wonderful tribute. Classy coach.
Headed to see my boys play high school baseball this morning. Puts things in perspective. Thanks Mike
Fantastic!
What a creative way to honor a family! Thank you for sharing this. Saying a prayer for them now.