In the spring of 1989, as my eighth-grade year was concluding and before I experienced a growth spurt, “Field of Dreams” premiered, featuring actors like Kevin Costner, James Earl Jones, and Ray Liotta. I can’t recall the first time I watched the film, a fact which I find amusing.
My initial visit to the Field of Dreams Movie Site in Dyersville, Iowa, took place in 2018 with my dad during my first year of playing catch daily. On our way, we stopped to watch the Kansas City Royals lose a game, having been invited by journalist Bob Dyer, who was helping connect me with a local reader, Stan Sipka, known for walking along the beach with gloves, inviting people for a game of catch. I find this fact humorous as well.
Recently, I returned to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the film with my wife Jamie. Our visit included participation in the “largest game of catch” in conjunction with the premiere of a new movie, “Rally Caps.” We toured the iconic renovated farmhouse and even spotted my book on a shelf. It was a joy to play catch and connect with new friends.
One of the friends I met was Garry, who shared that his father passed away a couple of years ago. He brought along a newspaper clipping from the day his dad caught baseball legend Satchel Paige in a barnstorming game, and an invitation signed by Honus Wagner to attend spring training in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Listening to Garry recount these memories was delightful.
I also made friends with John and Suzanne, avid Minnesota Twins fans. I joined their game of catch, and Suzanne skillfully used a first base mitt modeled after the one used by Twins legend Kent Hrbek. Watching her pick short hops with ease brought a smile to my face. John regaled me with a story about a complete game shutout he pitched in high school, highlighting how playing catch fosters the sharing of memories.
Before watching “Rally Caps” under the stars, Coach Ballgame led a Sandlot Clinic with the help of the Ghost Players. Known as James Lowe, Coach Ballgame travels to share life lessons through baseball and teaches newcomers about the legendary Roberto Clemente. His interactive approach and humor celebrate the joy of the game for fans of all skill levels.
During the clinic, I reunited with Bigby Suddarth, a young boy I had played catch with during my first catch-playing year. Bigby, whose nickname should possibly be “Iron Man” given he has undergone four open-heart surgeries, is awaiting further surgery in Philadelphia. We came together on the field to create more lasting memories.
Our time included running the bases, playing catch during the large game, and exploring the iconic corn outfield. We chatted about life’s significant moments, such as movies, books, and the experiences of being ten.
Many baseball fans of all ages gathered at the Field of Dreams site to commemorate the movie’s 35th anniversary and take part in the “largest game of catch” alongside the premiere of “Rally Caps.” Bigby, however, has not seen “Field of Dreams,” and thus doesn’t quite grasp the emotional weight of playing catch in such a historic location. He likely doesn’t realize the poignant question posed in the film: “Hey! Dad? You want to have a catch?” Yet, it doesn’t diminish the unforgettable afternoon spent together playing under Iowa’s sky.