In the heart of Colorado Springs, the Recovery Rebels Softball league has become a beacon of hope and community for those navigating the rocky road of mental health and addiction recovery. Founded by recovery coach and personal trainer Rob Decker, this league serves as a supportive environment for individuals seeking sobriety through the shared joy of softball. By creating opportunities for connections, self-expression, and mutual support, the league champions mental well-being and sobriety while highlighting the importance of communal engagement.
The Power of Play
Softball, at first glance, is merely a sport, but for league members like Anna Martinez, it serves as a therapeutic outlet. Martinez, a Navy veteran diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), expresses her frustrations and worries through the act of swinging her bat. During a recent game, the joy of hitting the ball not only released her anger but also reinforced a sense of accomplishment and camaraderie with fellow players. The league is designed as a safe haven for individuals like Anna who are on their recovery journey, offering them a supportive environment where they can be vulnerable without judgment.
The impact of sports on mental health is well-documented. Engaging in physical activities increases endorphins, reduces stress, and promotes social interactions, all of which contribute to improved mental health. However, Recovery Rebels provides an additional layer—an emphasis on sobriety and mutual support, creating a unique space that allows players to focus on their recovery goals.
Building Community
Rob Decker founded Recovery Rebels about four years ago, driven by his personal experiences and struggles with substance abuse. After enduring a life-altering suicide attempt, he emerged on the other side with a renewed purpose—to help others find solace and support through sports. This ethos permeates the league, with members appreciating the culture of accountability and teamwork that Decker has fostered.
The Recovery Rebels league’s mission is not just about winning games; it’s about nurturing relationships built on trust, vulnerability, and acceptance. Members find a sense of belonging and are encouraged to lean on one another during challenging times. As Derrek Villagrana, a league member, shares, the culture of checking egos at the door and creating a brotherhood plays a vital role in sustaining their recovery.
A Place for Vulnerability
Sober activities often become pivotal in supporting individuals who face challenges associated with addiction and mental health. The Recovery Rebels Softball league exemplifies how sport can be an instrument for healing. Participants can safely explore their vulnerabilities and share their stories without fear of judgment.
Chris Quintana, another member, reflects on how he transitioned from participating in pre-game rituals involving substances to embracing sobriety in respect for the league’s mission. This change did not only contribute to his own recovery but also reinforced the importance of solidarity within the squad. The Recovery Rebels offer a genuine sense of safety, empowering members to be open about their struggles and celebrating sobriety together.
The Growth of the League
Starting from a single team, Recovery Rebels Softball has grown to five teams comprising 50 to 60 members. This growth is a testament to the positive impact the league has had on its members and the community at large. The inclusion of diverse teams—coed, men’s, and military—further strengthens its outreach and inclusivity.
The league operates through the nonprofit organization Rise as Lions, which seeks to provide additional resources to support players in their journeys. Participants do not need to be 100% sober at all times to join, but they are expected to be sober while on the field. This policy creates a powerful incentive for members to commit fully to their recovery.
Funding and Community Support
Community engagement plays a crucial role in the league’s operation. Recovery Rebels receives grant funding to cover registration fees, uniforms, and equipment, allowing players to fully immerse themselves in the experience without financial barriers. Additionally, community donations ensure that access to quality gear remains inclusive.
The support extends beyond equipment; it fosters a sense of collective responsibility and participation. The league encourages players to champion recovery not just for themselves, but for each other, understanding that shared experiences can aid personal healing.
Conclusion: More Than a Sport
The Recovery Rebels Softball league stands as a multifaceted initiative that intertwines sport with mental health and addiction recovery in Colorado Springs. It creates a nurturing environment that combines physical activity with meaningful connections, providing a path for individuals to regain control over their lives.
Participants, including veterans like Anna Martinez and others dealing with personal challenges, are crafting their narratives of resilience through this unique program. Members are reminded that they are not alone, and with the support of their teammates and the community, they can tackle the challenges life presents together.
As the league wraps up its fall season, anticipation builds for the next session in April, with hopes that even more individuals join the Recovery Rebels family. For those seeking solidarity and a firmer grasp on sobriety, the Recovery Rebels Softball league stands ready to hit home runs for mental health and addiction recovery well into the future.
To learn more about the Recovery Rebels and how to get involved, visit Rise as Lions.
