Fans get rooftop view of Rebel win

by Ashlee De Wit

LANSING, Ill. (April 1, 2019) — It was a cold day for baseball, but the TF South bats were hot in an 11-1 victory over TF North on April 1.

Fans and students watched from the stands—and from the roof across the street. The Rebels’ big win was also the big Rebel Rooftop kickoff at First United Methodist Church.

As the players took the field, some of their fans braved the windy cold to enjoy the view from the nearby church roof. Others took in the game from the TV in the “skybox” classroom or played ping pong in the game room. Church volunteers provided hotdogs and popcorn, cookies, coffee, and lemonade.

“It always takes a lot of work from a lot of people to put this together,” said Bob Wood, who helps organize the event.

Some lucky fans won a pair of the 28 donated White Sox tickets in a free raffle.

The White Sox also donated hats, a barbecue set, and an autographed Jose Abreu bat. Those were raffled off to the baseball team and coaches when they walked over for hot dogs after the win.

“We had a great time; it was a really good day,” said Pastor Dave Price.

The rooftop games are part of First United Methodist Church’s ongoing connection with students at TF South. Students are invited every week for dinner, games, and fellowship at Walk Over Wednesday—a joint program with Increasing Faith Ministries. It’s especially popular with athletes, who have time between the early dismissal and their practices.

The TF South varsity baseball team will be back on their home field April 8 against Tinley Park High School.

First United Methodist Church is located at 18420 Burnham Avenue in Lansing. TF South High School is located at 18500 Burnham Avenue in Lansing.