By: Crystal Rowland & Melody Ungureanu

On Monday, July 1, 2013 the Pujols Family Foundation kicked off the summer at the ‘ESPN Zone’ Game Day Debut in Anaheim, California.

The event provided sports-themed, interactive gaming opportunities for over 95 individuals with Down syndrome and one family member per person. Participants and families were able to meet, socialize and connect with old friends. Over 10,000 square feet of competitive games and attractions entertained our honored guests in the ESPN Sports Arena.

2-Minute Drill – Got Throwing Skills?
ESPN Hoops Hysteria – Test your free throw shot
Rollerball – Bowling fun for all ages
Quad Air Hockey – Up to 4 Players!
Typhoon – Intense simulated rides
Super Bikes 2 – Bike on

Each of the participants were checked in upon arrival and directed to the Sports Arena for the night’s activities.  There was an electric excitement amongst the staff and participants to have fun and enjoy the evening. Families were able to select gaming activities (‘free play’) of their choice and a variety of delicious and healthy food was available for the participants. Families from various areas of Southern California mingled, ate and enjoyed one another’s company. The tables were set up with black linen tablecloths, PFF Game Day Debut tents, and a Pujols Family Foundation backdrop was set up for photo memories. The ESPN Zone provided a sundae bar, with all the toppings you can imagine! Coconut, peanuts, sprinkles, Oreos, caramel, hot fudge, whipped cream, and cherries to top the sundae.

The event began at 4:00 p.m. and concluded at 9:00 p.m.  At 7:00 p.m., PFF Executive Director Todd Perry introduced the Pujols Family Foundation Southern California team. Crystal Rowland, Special Events & Development and Melody Ungureanu, Program Coordinator will facilitate and build the Foundation’s events and programs. Albert and Deidre Pujols were happy to create new relationships, enjoy time with their family and play a variety of video games at the ESPN Zone.

This evening exemplified what the Pujols Family Foundation strives to do at every turn. The evening captured memories that will last a lifetime and celebrated the lives of individuals with Down syndrome in Southern California. We continue to be exceedingly grateful for our association with these incredible families.

We would like to extend a special thank you to the following people and sponsors for their valuable contributions that made this event a great success:  ESPN Zone, MLB.COM, OC Register, DSA-OC, Dana Grant Photography and Conrad Photography, Oh Yeah Nutrition, Mike Roide at RGS Printing, Albert & Deidre Pujols, and all of our wonderful volunteers!