LAKEWOOD RANCH, Fla. — When baseball players step onto the field at the Lakewood Ranch Little League, Matthew Powers' family hopes they take a piece of his legacy with them.
"He lived life to the fullest, he was always a kind person," said Dan Powers, his father.
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Matthew, 15, died after a crash in 2018 on his way to a homecoming dance, alongside his friend Chase Coyner, 17.
On Saturday, the Lakewood Ranch Little League dedicated a field in Powers' honor.
He spent about four years playing for the league, starting the sport when he was three years old.
"It's heart wrenching to know he’s gone and he’s not here to play baseball on the field, but makes us proud, makes us happy to know that he will always be part of baseball in Manatee County with this field," said Dan Powers.
The field is now named the Matthew Ryan Powers Memorial Field.
The unveiling included a marching band, speeches, his brother throwing out the first pitch, a donation to a scholarship fund in his honor from the league, signs revealed and a plaque with a message his family wrote.
"The plaque actually says 'Matthew was never the biggest player was never the best player but it’s about the attitude it’s about enjoying what you do,'" said Rebecca Powers, his mother.
It's a message they hope players take with them, and one that makes sure Matthew is remembered beyond the game.
"His attitude his love for life his love for baseball knowing that these players will come through here and be able to play on his field is quite the honor," said Rebecca Powers.
