Ella Marie Foundation is excited to be a Home Run Sponsor at One Thing for Youth’s ONETHINGathon fundraiser on Saturday, November 21, 2015. Davis Mortland is a member of One Thing For Youth, an organization supporting faith and mentorship through baseball. Just 14 years of age, he is currently helping to raise funds for the ONETHINGathon. We recently had an opportunity to speak with Davis about his participation in One Thing For Youth and the impact of his first fundraising experience.

Q: What position do you play?
A: I pitch and also play first base (wearing #29).

Q: Who is your favorite pro baseball player?
A: Andrew McCutchen, Center Fielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates

Q: Can you tell us about your experience with One Thing For Youth?
A: It is a great experience. The coaches are really great and are very motivational. There is no yelling here — they keep it positive.

One of our mottos is ” A team that prays together Stays together,” and that really is what it’s like to be here. We are really like family. I also like that they give back to the community and the Men’s ministry.

Q: What has your first fundraising experience been like for ONETHINGathon?
A: Fundraising is hard. But, people can tell when you truly believe in a cause and are very nice when you ask them to donate to a good cause.

Leadership gave us letters, so we personalized them and sent them out. I also handed out some letters in person, which really helps with your speaking skills.

Q: What’s the most important thing you’ve learned from a GA Jackets teammate?
A: Just shake if off when something doesn’t go your way. Be positive and keep playing hard. That is why we are a team — if it doesn’t go well for me one day, someone else will do something good. And sometimes I help others when they are not doing well.

Q: What is your favorite thing about baseball?
A: How much fun it is. I love being on the field and on the mound. It’s a great feeling to be there with your teammates.

Q: What advice do you have for younger baseball players?
A: Don’t let a bad coach get you down. Work as hard as you can every day and good things will happen. You will find a good team that fits you too!

Special thanks to Davis for sharing his experience and insights with us! If you’d like to attend ONETHINGathon and support One Thing For Youth, event details and registration can be found on their website.