Louisa, Ky — Baseball Opening day at Stella Moore Park will always hold a special part in my heart but this year the Louisa Cal Ripken League hosted one of the most amazing things that I have seen as this year’s opening day was dedicated to Dustin Chicko and his family who has been an inspiration to everyone and an integral part of the league for several years in different capacities.
Dustin was diagnosed with cancer in 2016 and has fought a courageous battle ever since.
All of the teams this season will have #TEAMCHICKO on the back of their jerseys so show that every one is behind the family.
The Louisa Cal Ripken League along with Hillbilly Hibachi was able to raise over $ 2,000 on opening day for the Chicko Family.
League officials estimated over 3,000 people at Stella Moore Park for opening day.
Front Row L to R Marcelo and Carmelo
The Chicko Family
Angel Derifield on the Chicko Family
“… Dustin has been a Coach, mentor, friend, and leader at Stella Moore for about 7 years. He is family! The entire Chicko family is Cal Ripken family.”
“… When one of our own is hurting or in need, we want to step up and give back. We are thankful for the years Dustin and Amie and the kids have spent at Stella Moore and we look forward to many years to come.”
Blake Preece on Chicko Family
“… Our community is lucky to have the Chicko’s. For almost a decade we’ve gotten to Coach head to head against Dustin. He’s earned so much respect for his ability to mentor and mold kids.
“…When I took the middle school football job he was the first call I made because of the impact he was making on our youth. New arena..same man.. same impact! It’s pretty amazing when you step back to look at the footprints Amie and Dustin have made not only on our youth but our adults.”
“… You find out a lot in times of adversity. Can’t say enough what an awesome job our community did wrapping its arms around the Chicko family opening day. They are loved and it was a reflection of how they have poured their hearts into others here!”
