Earlier this month, CAF athlete Landis Sims stood on the La Jolla Youth Baseball fields in San Diego, CA, and inspired a crowd of 100 kids and their families with his incredible story of perseverance, adaptive sports innovation, and love for baseball.
Born limb deficient in both his arms and legs, Landis has never let his physical differences stop him. Picking up a baseball glove at just four years old, he has chased his dream relentlessly. Today, he’s not only a high school baseball player but also a mentor, speaker, and advocate for adaptive sports.
To kick off the clinic, Landis gathered the young athletes and shared his personal journey—how he overcame challenges, adapted to the game, and ultimately earned a spot on his high school baseball team.
He also gave the crowd a behind-the-scenes look at the adaptive sports equipment and Össur running prosthetics that help him excel on the field. Demonstrating how he grips the bat, fields grounders, and runs the bases, Landis showed the kids that with the right mindset and tools, no dream is out of reach.
After the opening talk, excitement filled the field as the kids joined Landis and three Major League Baseball players for a two-hour skills session:
Together, they led drills in fielding, hitting, throwing, and even some fun competitive games. The atmosphere was electric—smiles, laughter, and the sound of baseballs cracking off bats echoed across the diamond.
When asked about the day, Landis said:
“Saturday at the La Jolla Little League Clinic was one of my favorite things I have ever done. It involved two things I love—baseball and helping people. Getting to know all the kids and their families was great. I got to play with the kids and have fun with them. I met 3 MLB players that are now more than just players to me—they are friends.”
Landis also shared his dream of becoming a coach one day:
“Whether it’s at the professional or college level or running my own hitting facility, coaching has my heart. This clinic gave me a glimpse of coaching, and I fell in love with it even more. I had the chance to share my knowledge and teach drills that can really help kids improve their game.”
One theme stood out to Landis throughout the clinic—the spirit of family in baseball.
“The whole baseball world is really a family. Meeting these kids and their families reminded me why I love this game. I also have mentors like Bradley, Kyle, and Zach now. I know that anytime I need advice, I can reach out to them.”
The clinic was more than a practice session; it was a bonding experience, blending mentorship, fun, and inspiration.
Landis’s journey has already inspired countless athletes and baseball fans. From being named an Honorary Padre for a Day to starring in the documentary Landis, Just Watch Me, his story continues to break barriers in adaptive sports.
CAF is proud to support athletes like Landis who demonstrate that determination, innovation, and community can open doors to any sport.
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