By Mary Ellen Day, Special Writer
A bunch of team players came together for the benefit of a little Manville boy by playing in a softball tournament on July 13 through the volunteer, non-profit Jack’s Kids of the Somerville Elks.
Manville resident Sheri Lynn has been involved in the tournament for years and wanted to put a team together for little Alexander Monto, an eight-month-old born with stomach and congenital heart defects. He’s the son of Jim and Brittany Monto.
"I know what Jack’s Kids is all about and I thought it would be really cool to actually support one of our own," said Ms. Lynn. "I know Jimmy and his struggles with Alexander. It has been a long road for the family. What a better tribute."
Ms. Lynn called Mr. Monto and he was receptive. He had wanted to put in a team but could not get enough players, he said.
"My phone call was very timely," she said. "The next thing you know I call and say ‘I am putting in a women’s team and can we play for your son?’ He basically said absolutely and he would be honored."
The team was fielded with players that Ms. Lynn chose, played with and played against from all over the state, including Manville residents Heather Armstrong, Rachel Janes and Pam Mack. Both Heather and Rachel were star softball players at Manville High School.
"I play on Thursdays with Sheri Lynn and being in town and I know his sister Mackenzie I just wanted to do it because I know the family," said Rachel. "It was run very well and it was fun. I am hoping that it raised a lot of money for him. I felt really good that I was able to go out and do what I love to help a kid that needs it the most."
Team Alexander played in the recreational bracket for people who are friends and families of Jack’s Kids. Team Alexander were undefeated and took first place in their division. Team Alexander gave its trophy to the Monto family for Alexander.
"He is the hero. He is the winner, so he deserves the trophy," said Ms. Lynn. "Afterwards we invited all the teams over to meet our hero. They all got to meet Alexander and we all ran the bases with Alexander."
At the games, which were played in parks in Somerset County, the Montos and extended family and friends were there for the entire event. They pitched a tent and sat under it to cheer on their team.
Mom Kim Monto was touched.
"I have been trying to find the right words to express how grateful we are," she said. "I have come to the conclusion that there are not enough words to properly let everyone know what yesterday meant to all of us. From the beginning, when Sherri Lynn asked if her team could play for Alexander this year, it was humbling.
"All of the women on all of the teams were wonderful and anxious to meet, run the bases with and fist pump with Alexander," she said. "They did an incredible job playing four games in the heat and sun. We sang, danced and had great fun. Not only were these women playing for Alexander, they went out of their way to include his sisters and cousin in the activities. The girls were thrilled to be bat girls for the games!"
According to their website, "Jack’s Kids is a committee supported by our Somerville Elks Lodge 1068 for the past 22 years. We are a local charity that raises money for children and families with illnesses and/or special needs. Jack’s Kids is dedicated to helping children and their families with the expenses and issues related to childhood illnesses and disabilities. "Thank you seems so simple but we are simply thankful for everyone who came out to support and play for Alexander, You are in our hearts forever," said Ms. Monto.
