WHEN THE CALENDAR turns to spring, the excitement becomes palpable among the members of the Iron Spikes, a Texas service and social organization. To go with the usual schedule — charity events, mixers, parties — the Iron Spikes hold their annual softball game in April, with all proceeds going to the Special Olympics.
And in the backdrop …
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of it all sits the beginning of another baseball season. Horns Illustrated spoke with creative advertising student Michael Todd, a member of the Iron Spikes since fall 2010. With plans to graduate this December, Todd will enjoy his final baseball season with the Spikes.
How important is baseball season for the Iron Spikes?
Baseball is the main purpose of our group and the season is the most exciting part of the year for us. You notice a good vibe when baseball season is near. Every week, you have some thing baseball related going on, plus all the social activities. You’re never bored.
What does a typical game day tailgate look like for you?
We usually have Tuesday and Saturday tailgates. Tuesdays are more relaxed. We’ll bring out a smaller grill and make sausage wraps and burgers. Anyone is welcome to come join us. On Saturday, we bring our big grill out and do a mix with a girls’ spirit group. We have washers, throw the football around and play music from somebody’s truck. It’s your typical tailgate.
You played baseball in high school. Has Iron Spikes filled that void?
Yes. I was a member of the Westlake team in 2009. We went to the state tournament, but lost in the semifinals. Baseball is no longer a big part of my life, but it’s great to have an organization remind me of how much I love the game. I like that you can go out to the tailgates, sit around and enjoy the company.
Clearly, the Iron Spikes identify with the baseball team. Did most of the group grow up loving the game?
No. It’s surprising how many guys weren’t interested in baseball. But through the group, these guys have grown in appreciation for Texas baseball. The Iron Spikes try to make it to all of the home games. When I started out, I had to go to 14 games. The rookies — in their first semester — are required to attend all games, but it doesn’t feel like an obligation because you’re with your friends.
Tell me about your service obligations.
We understand baseball isn’t everything. Our main philanthropy is the Special Olympics. In early February we held a big event for them at Highland Lanes that spanned the weekend. Then we’ll host a softball tournament this spring and all the money from that, through sponsorships, goes to Special Olympics. We do panhandling.
We’ll go on the streets every few weeks and raise money and then email family friends asking for donations. We also go to local businesses asking for support. For information on how to become a sponsor for the Iron Spikes’ spring softball game, visit TexasIron- Spikes.org.
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