ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) – Large events such as baseball games can be overwhelming for people with sensory needs. The tens of thousands of people, loud PA system and recurrent fireworks can be overstimulating.
The Atlanta Braves are trying to make the gameday experience better and more enjoyable for those fans.
The team unveiled the Braves Haven All-Star Sensory Lounge at the ballpark Wednesday ahead of All-Star festivities. Truist Park is the 24th Major League ballpark with a sensory room.
The new room is located near section 218 and next to a guest services office. It includes a wall that emulates the outfield wall and sky and a TV that allows fans in the space to watch the game without dealing with any overwhelming stimuli.
The Braves stressed that the space is open to fans of all ages.
This has been a longtime goal and initiative of our guest services team, [and] our leadership team to make sure we have a space so everybody and anybody can come and enjoy the game,“ said Danielle Bedasse, Braves vice president of community affairs and executive director of the Atlanta Braves Foundation. ”Whether that is a Hometown Hero with PTSD who wants to take his kids to the fireworks on Friday night or a family with [someone] with autism. We have the opportunity to have that space.”
Braves first baseman Matt Olson was a major role-player in the space’s creation. Olson’s donations to the Atlanta Braves Foundation created the “Matt Pack,” allowing the family of someone with autism to enjoy a sensory-friendly day at the ballpark.
The mission is personal for Olson. His close friend Reece Blankenship has autism and is non-verbal. Blankenship’s family helps facilitate the Matt Packs through their ReClif Community program.
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