Stepping Up to the Plate: ASCEND Clients Tour the 66ers Stadium

At ASCEND Day Program, we’re always looking for ways to turn real-world experiences into meaningful learning opportunities. Our recent field trip to the Inland Empire 66ers stadium in San Bernardino was exactly that—a day filled with exploration, discovery, and hands-on learning that brought career pathways and community engagement to life.

Stepping Onto the Field

For many of our clients, walking onto a professional baseball field was a first-time experience—and one they won’t soon forget. Standing on the same field where athletes train and compete gave everyone a new appreciation for the discipline, teamwork, and preparation that go into sports careers.

We talked about the many roles that make game day possible—not just the players, but the grounds crew, event staff, trainers, and operations teams. It was a powerful moment of realizing how many different job skills come together in one place.

Behind the Scenes: Dugouts, VIP Sections, and More

Our tour didn’t stop at the field. Clients had the opportunity to explore the dugouts, where players strategize and prepare during games. This sparked conversations about teamwork, communication, and staying focused under pressure—skills that translate directly into workplace success.

The visit to the VIP sections offered another perspective: customer service and hospitality. Clients observed how spaces are designed to create a premium experience and discussed what it takes to deliver high-quality service to guests.

One of the most exciting stops was the PA announcer’s booth. Seeing where announcements are made during games opened up discussions about public speaking, confidence, and technical skills. Clients even got a glimpse into how communication plays a key role in keeping large events organized and engaging.

A Lesson in Baseball History

The tour also included an engaging look into the history of the team and its connections to major league organizations like the Seattle Mariners and the Los Angeles Dodgers. Clients learned how minor league teams serve as stepping stones for athletes and how affiliations can change over time.

This part of the experience highlighted the importance of growth, development, and perseverance—values we emphasize every day at ASCEND. It was inspiring for clients to see how careers can evolve and how opportunities can come from unexpected places.

Career Fair: Exploring Real Opportunities

In addition to the tour, the stadium hosted a career fair that gave clients direct access to professionals from a variety of fields. Representatives from the military, county services, dental offices, and other organizations were present to share information and answer questions.

This was a standout moment of the day. Clients practiced communication skills, asked thoughtful questions, and learned about different career paths in a supportive, real-world setting. Experiences like this help build confidence and give our clients a clearer understanding of what’s possible for their future.