Theunissen heading to Washington DC to play T-Ball

Theunissen heading to DC to play T-B-all

By Chris Rosa

LAFAYETTE - Kade Theunissen has been on Earth five years and he is going to do something that many Americans will never do in their life time. He will meet the President of the United States next month.

Theunissen is one of 51 Tee-Ball players from all 50 states and the District of Columbia who were selected to play at the White House in a Tee-Ball All-Star game on the South Lawn set for July 16.

The five year old from Lafayette will represent Louisiana.

At the end of the game, each player will be called up to meet the President, receive a signed baseball and take a photo with him.

“I will tell him thanks for inviting me and that I had fun,” said Kade.

Kade will enter the first grade at Cathedral-Carmel School in Lafayette.

His parents are Marcus and Jeri Landry Theunissen.

“I’m shocked by it,” said Jeri Landry Theunissen. “We knew he was nominated.”

Jeri Landry Theunissen is the daughter of Earl “Boo” and Billie Landry from Erath.

Kade was selected to represent Louisiana by Little League International.

Each summer Little League International asks each coach in Tee-Ball to nominate a player on their team to play in the Tee-Ball game at the White House.

Kade’s coach, Dr. Bryan G. Sibley, who is president of the Lafayette Little League, wrote the letter that separated Kade from the rest of the players.

This is the letter he sent to Little League International Headquarters.

“One of the greatest lessons in baseball is the value of teamwork. Kade, with his contagious smile and joyful disposition, certainly understands and exemplifies “team spirit.” He comes to practice and to games ready to play and any position asked and is always rooting for and supporting his teammates. Kade always puts forth his best effort and is, without a doubt, leading his team by example.

“I believe Kade is a natural leader with great potential. How wonderful it would be to send him to the White House Lawn to show him just how far his leadership abilities can take him!

“I am proud to nominate Kade for this opportunity of a lifetime and appreciate your consideration.”

Little League International will pay for Kade and his parents to fly to Washington D.C. and stay in a hotel.

The game will be the 19th overall played on the South Lawn of the White House since 2001, when President Bush began the initiative as a way to boost interest in youth sports among children and parents.

It will be the first game involving players from all the states.