LOS ANGELES — Amid joyful cheers and energetic music, Mickey Mouse made a surprise appearance over the weekend, delighting children with a special message: get moving and stay healthy through sports.
The occasion was a community sports clinic held at Cathedral High School, nestled near the vibrant heart of downtown Los Angeles. This event was a collaborative endeavor, brought to life by L.A. County Parks, the “Disney Jr. Let’s Play” campaign, and ESPN’s “Take Back Sports” initiative. The aim was simple yet impactful: introduce preschoolers and kindergartners to the joys of T-Ball, soccer, flag football, and basketball.
Mickey Mouse, the beloved Disney icon, was at the forefront, leading the festivities with his signature “Hot Dog!” dance. This lively performance also served to celebrate the launch of the new Disney+ series, “Mickey Mouse Clubhouse+.”
The event saw around 75 enthusiastic children, aged three to seven, eagerly participating. They were organized into age-appropriate groups, rotating through different sports activities in 15-minute sessions, ensuring each child had a chance to explore and enjoy.
ESPN Commentator Bernardo Osuna, who took on the role of emcee, emphasized the significance of reintroducing fun into youth sports. “We want to bring back the fun,” Osuna stated, highlighting ESPN’s commitment to making sports enjoyable for young ones. “Today’s clinic is all about exploring different sports and helping these kids have a great time.”
Alyssa Sapire, Head of Disney Jr. Original Programming and Strategy, echoed this sentiment, pointing to the global impact of Disney Jr.’s initiatives. “‘Disney Jr.’s Let’s Play!’ inspires children worldwide to find joy in play, whether through beloved characters like Mickey or our engaging storytelling,” she remarked, underscoring the mission to foster happiness and health through active play.
“We got to play lots of games and have fun,” 7-year-old Disney Jr./ESPN sports clinic participant Caspian Milton said. His mom, Kari Milton, was happy they could join in the activities, “It’s a great day. It’s a bright sunny day and my kid’s having a blast. He’s also getting introduced to some sports like flag football that he’s never played before.”
Every Kid Sports Executive Director, Eleana Fanaika, shared seeing smiles is why she helps the community, “This is the coolest day and these kids have the biggest smiles on their face. And, this is exactly why we do it. Because, play brings joy and hope to kids. And, even if that’s for a day that instills in them to go after it again, and find a new opportunity throughout their life.”
To learn more about ESPN’s “Take Back Sports,” visit TakeBackSports.org.
Fans can also watch the “Mickey Mouse Clubhouse+” on Disney+.
The Walt Disney Company is the parent company of ESPN, Disney+, Disney Jr. and this ABC station.
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