A difference maker is an individual who displays the characteristics of determination, teamwork, courage, and integrity—Dougie Bedinger embodies all of this and so much more.
Dougie has overcome quite a lot in his 15 years and as his baseball coach points out, his story is remarkable. A genetic condition required Dougie to undergo three life-saving surgeries in the first few months of life and with that came several other conditions including autism. Doctors telling the family he would never be able to participate in sports. Even with all the curve balls that have been thrown at him, Dougie has never given in. His hard work and determination striking out anything that tries to get in his way.
Individuals like Dougie inspire those around him, and he is leaving his mark with every step he takes and every pitch he throws.
Dougie is a left-handed pitcher and first baseman for the Coalers Freshman and Frosh/Soph Baseball Teams, “a fine baseball player,” in the words of his coach Greg Wills, yet more importantly he is, “a special young man.”
“He inspires me to be better as a coach, parent, teacher, and person, and I am definitely a better person for having had that privilege as have the students and teammates of Dougie’s throughout his years,” Wills said.
His teacher, Melissa George, shared, “Dougie has truly inspired me to be a better teacher and version of myself by sharing his ability to shatter overwhelming odds in various ways while maintaining his polite and positive attitude.”
April is World Autism Awareness Month and today—Wednesday, April 2—is World Autism Awareness Day. With this year’s observance, Dougie is helping make a worldwide difference and bringing awareness through what he enjoys most—baseball.
Wilson Sporting Goods Company and Autism Speaks have collaborated on a line of products that promote inclusion, acceptance and understanding. Wilson’s A2000 Love the Moment® collection includes a series of baseball and softball gloves and the new first baseman's mitt—the first ever to be offered in the collection—was designed by Dougie, who is also credited with designing a pitcher's glove.
“Dougie's coupling with Wilson truly embodies the grit to overcome challenges while giving back to others,” George said.
The partnership with Wilson came about when Dougie asked for a first baseman’s glove from the collection, and with one not available his mom reached out to the company to see if one could be added. The request prompted the president and general manager of the company’s baseball division to reach out and invite Dougie to design one for the company’s collection.
Joined by his parents—Doug and Mary, and sister, Bailee, Dougie traveled to Wilson headquarters to work their team to create the mitt. His design features the collection’s signature blue leather with an ombre pattern and white trim.
The first baseman’s mitt and pitcher's glove are available for purchase and a percentage of the sales go directly to Autism Speaks. To see the collection visit https://www.wilson.com/en-us/explore/baseball/autism-speaks-glove-lineup
“Dougie is using his personal life experience to show that no matter what the situation is, hard work, dedication, and support can help a person overcome many obstacles. He is a courageous young man using his personal story to encourage others and make people aware of autism,” said Coal City Superintendent Chris Spencer.
Dougie’s new first baseman’s mitt and pitcher’s gloves are both customized with his initials, jersey number and a bright pink cross.
“The Bedinger Family is such a phenomenal example that anything is possible with a strong support system, building on strengths, exposure to various activities, fantastic attitude, and not allowing anyone, not even doctors, to set limits! It has been both an honor and a privilege to be a tiny part of Dougie's incredible journey,” George said.
To learn more about Dougie’s incredible story and his collaboration with Wilson and Autism Speaks visit https://www.autismspeaks.org/blog/handling-curveballs-dougie-bedinger-takes-autism-mound