Tyler Trudell, a seventh grade student in the Wachusett District at Paxton Center School, loved baseball, and was an active participant not just in Paxton youth baseball but in a number of Paxton youth sports programs. One morning in May of 2021, every parent’s worst nightmare occurred, when Tyler simply never woke up. There was no warning, no apparent injury or incident that precipitated that dreadful morning.
Lynn Trudell and her family searched for a way to make something positive out of the overwhelming tragedy. “We started making bracelets to raise funds for a bench at Polar Park in Tyler’s name, and the WooSox reached out to us with the idea to start a charitable organization in Tyler’s name.” Lynn Trudell explains. “With Tyler’s Paxton Center School classmates as ambassadors, Tyler’s Teammates was born.”
With the Worcester Red Sox help, Tyler’s Teammates raises funds to help families throughout Central Mass afford the costs associated with participating in youth baseball, including costs such as registration, equipment, travel fees, and other costs that could keep some youngsters from participating. Since the effort began on Valentine’s Day three years ago, many young people in the area have been able to play baseball, the game Tyler loved so much, because of Tyler’s Teammates.
“The Paxton community has gathered with Tyler’s family at the annual town takeover days to remember Tyler.” Trudell says. “I’m so grateful to the WooSox for all their support, as well as all our family and friends.”
“Without their support, I don’t know how we would have gotten through this.” Trudell continues. Even as the family, along with their friends and the WooSox try to find some way to help others through Tyler’s Teammates, the family struggles with profound sadness. “Every day is the same day.” Trudell explains. “There is nothing like watching your children play baseball, and I just loved it.”
Raising funds is accomplished through the sale of the bracelets at Polar Park as well as the Ten West Market on Route 122 on the Holden / Rutland line, and Tyler’s uncle runs an annual fishing derby. Contributions may also be made through the WooSox Foundation site, and directly to Tyler’s Teammates.
The family and the WooSox appreciate everyone who supports Tyler’s Teammates and in doing so, helps youngsters throughout the region who might not be able to play youth baseball be able to do so, while at the same time continuing to remember Tyler.