In Chicago, a group of young girls gathered at Gompers Park on Saturday for a complimentary softball clinic.
“I enjoy playing first base and pitching,” shared 10-year-old Dakota Romero with enthusiasm.
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This event marked the beginning of the Eve Fries Foundation, established by the Fries family to commemorate their daughter Eve, a dedicated 17-year-old softball enthusiast.
“We wanted to find a way to honor our daughter, who succumbed to DIPG in 2021. She was a determined softball player,” explained Kurt Fries, Eve’s father.
Eve was diagnosed with a brain tumor, tragically shortening her life.
As an admirer of the Chicago Cubs, Eve’s family paid tribute to her at the very field where she developed her passion for softball.
“She loved it here. I love coming here because it reminds me of her, and it’s more joyful that going to a cemetery. And 44s are everywhere, and that was her number. She loved Rizzo. And when you see a 44, that’s Eve saying, ‘Hi,’” said Debby Fries, Eve’s mother.
Through the foundation, her family wants to ensure other girls are exposed to softball and have the support to excel.
“You’re just having a good time, and I’ve learned a lot, including pitching, hitting, fielding, and, like, how to be a good sport,” said 11-year-old Sofia Guzman.
“I think there is a resurgence in girls’ sports. I think it’s coming, and I think we want to do what we can to propel it,” Kurt said.
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