Mastery Prison Ministry volunteers, prison coaches offer
On March 20, Centinela State Prison’s Physical Education Department and Mastery Prison Ministry offered a Home Run Derby on A, B, and D Facilities.
The event provided incarcerated persons an opportunity to participate in an environment more closely resembling those in California communities.
“For a brief moment, we weren’t in prison, we were at a high school or college field, mentally free. That will be something I will always cherish,” said one participant.
Mike Hamilton, founder and director of Mastery Prison Ministry based in Florida, and volunteers traveled to spend the day at Centinela.
Hamilton has visited Centinela on numerous occasions with the last being in 2017.
“I am meant to be here today with you men as today is a blessing,” Hamilton said.
Hamilton and Team Mastery use their athletic talents to reach men in state and federal correctional facilities.
On each Centinela facility, participants competed for the Home Run Derby crown. Softballs were seen flying off the bat well over 300 feet.
“Today was a positive day and showcased how sport can bring people together and contribute to rehabilitation,” said Centinela Coach Altamirano. “We appreciate Mastery Prison Ministry for sacrificing their time and resources to come out to Centinela. We also thank all staff and participants who contributed to this special day.”
Submitted by Lt. D. Loop
Read more rehabilitation stories.
Follow CDCR on YouTube, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter). Listen to the CDCR Unlocked podcast.
Related content
San Quentin Jailblazers capture back‑to‑back gold
A team of correctional professionals from San Quentin Rehabilitation Center (SQRC) and California State Prison, Solano, defended their title at the…
Solano Fallen tourney raises over $12,500 for staff, families
Correctional professionals, law enforcement partners and community supporters came together to raise more than $12,500 during the recent Solano Fallen Resource…
Watch: CIM learns lessons from Saints’ softball team
The Saints, a traveling softball team spreading messages of hope inside prisons, played an exhibition game against California Institution for…
Staff triumph at first Solano Fallen Resource Fund Tournament
CDCR correctional staff from various institutions claimed victory at the first Solano Fallen Resource Fund Softball Tournament held June 13-14.…
RJD correctional counselor boxes for charity on USS Midway
Correctional Counselor Patrick Wingo proudly represented RJ Donovan Correctional Facility (RJD) and CDCR with a victory at the 21st annual…
Watch: Officer steps into boxing ring for Battle of the Badges
For one correctional officer, boxing has been an outlet, providing a way to connect with family, friends and coworkers. “I…