DAYTON – The Dayton Dragons organization gave Arcanum’s Karson Garno the MVP treatment on July 24. The Dragons learned of the 11-year-old’s condition and how he refuses to let that stop him from competing in sports and wanted to honor him as the game MVP with a special tour of the Day Air Ballpark stadium and even the opportunity to throw out the ceremonial first pitch before the game!
The youngster was born with a birth defect called Symbrachydactyly, which is a congenital hand anomaly that affects a single upper limb. Karson doesn’t let that stop him, he is a pitcher in baseball and plays football in Arcanum.
“We are proud to host exemplary local students like Karson at Day Air Ballpark as part of our Dayton Dragons MVP Program. Karson’s story is inspirational, and his ceremonial first pitch was a memorable moment for all in attendance at the game that night. We are positive that Karson’s work ethic and positive attitude will carry him far in his future endeavors,” said Robert Murphy, Dayton Dragons Team President.
Recently, he was invited to go watch his favorite MLB team, the Cincinnati Reds. He and his family got access to the field of the Great American Ballpark to watch batting practice and complimentary seats to watch the game. He also received a few keepsakes in the mail from his inspiration and former All-Star MLB pitcher Jim Abbott, who is missing most of his right hand.
Before the game, the Dragons organization displayed an honorary slideshow and live video of Karson throwing out the first pitch.
“It was a very touching moment to be able to watch Karson’s slideshow play and to be able to watch him throw out the first pitch in front of everyone,” said Karson’s mom Megan Garno.
In addition to the stadium tour and ceremonial first pitch, Karson received several cool items and apparel from the Dragons.
Karson added… “I had so much fun and loved the tour. To be able to be out there and throw out the first pitch was awesome!”
To top the evening off, the Dragons got the win over Ft. Wayne by a score of 5-4.