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Candy Maldonado

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Candy Maldonado

Ambassador Event

AMBASSADOR WAYNE AND “CANDYMAN” PLAY BASEBALL WITH ARGENTINE YOUTH
February 14, 2009

Former Major League Baseball star Candy Maldonado and Ambassador Wayne offered a baseball clinic to over 50 kids at the National Baseball Stadium. The two-hour clinic was sponsored by the Metropolitan Baseball League and given on the afternoon of February 13.   

Beginner and junior category players participated in the clinic and were accompanied by their parents and coaches. The afternoon was filled with the vibrant enthusiasm of baseball fans and ended as participants exchanged gifts. Metropolitan League President Sergio Martin presented the Ambassador and Maldonado Argentine baseball shirts and Candy gave every youngster one of his autographed cards.

“When we see Argentine boys playing for major leagues in other countries like the U.S.  It is clear that this sport has a future in Argentina. And such enthusiasm from the kids and parents! You can see how baseball has become an integral part of family life, just like in the United States.” – said Candy. 

Embassy officials, including Deputy Chief of Mission Thomas Kelly accompanied Candy during an intensive clinic with players from “Little Leagues Argentina” on February 14 at Parque Roca. Also present at the clinic were parents and baseball coaches. Young players, many of whom come from underprivileged neighborhoods and have a great future in this sport, did batting and fielding practices with the Candyman.  After the practices, Candy talked with senior players and their coaches.

Candy also threw out the fist pitch to open the Metropolitan League’s Major Championship Series on February 14 and visited kids at El Alba foster home in Longchamps in the afternoon.

These activities form part of the sports public diplomacy programs sponsored by the United States Embassy in Argentina.

 “The expressions of satisfaction and joy on the faces of these youngsters who spent the afternoon learning from and practicing with this outstanding baseball player, Candy Maldonado, prove how necessary and wonderful it is for our two countries to share the experience of sports.” – said Ambassador Wayne.