💙💗 Our 12U Bartlett Rebels Play with Greater Purpose in October 💗💙
- marc shapiro
- Oct 18
- 3 min read
The Bartlett Rebels 12U baseball team is known for their passion on the field — but this October, they’re also showing heart off the field. In honor of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, the team is dedicating their games, social media channels, and community outreach efforts to raising awareness and support for families who have experienced the unimaginable loss of a child.
Playing for Stella Malinowski
In 2025, if you found yourself in the stands or on the field going up against our formidable Rebel team, you likely noticed our players proudly sporting those eye-catching pink and blue jerseys that instantly set us apart. These vibrant uniforms were not just a fashion statement; they represented a deeper connection and commitment to a cause that resonated deeply within our community. The significance of the name emblazoned on the back of each jersey was even more profound than the striking colors. The name was Stella , who was not a player; she is our catcher Owen's sister and Coach Matt's daughter, a beloved member of our fans who graced us with her presence for a brief, yet impactful time. Stella's spirit is infectious and gave all our boys something to fight for while they were on the field. Tragically, she is no longer with us, but we take comfort in knowing that she continues to watch over us from above, cheering us on in every game. Her memory lives on in the hearts of our players, who have adopted a unique ritual: as they step up to the plate, they quietly (at times not so quietly) say "Stella Power," a phrase that has become a source of inspiration and focus as they prepare to face each pitch. This small yet powerful gesture serves as a reminder of her unwavering support and the strength she brings to our team, helping us navigate through both victories and defeats. Last year, we were fortunate enough to share Stella's family's story with our community, raising awareness for the important cause that they championed. This jersey campaign not only honored Stella's legacy but also fostered a sense of unity among our supporters, as we collectively worked to bring attention to issues that matter. Every fan of ours, whether they are the smallest children who look up to our players or those who may never have had the chance to join us in person, holds a special place in our hearts. Their support, no matter how big or small, means the world to our boys as they strive to honor Stella's legacy and play the game with passion and dedication. Together, we are not just a team; we are a family, united in our mission to celebrate life, love, and the enduring spirit of Stella Malinowski.
More Than a Game
“We want you boys to understand that you’re part of something bigger — that you can use their voice and platform to make a difference. “This cause hits home for some of our families, and the boys wanted to play for something that truly matters.”-Coach Hart, 2025 pre-season team meeting.
Community Support and Connection
The team is encouraging others to wear pink and blue during games this month, share awareness posts, or make donations to organizations that provide counseling and support for grieving families.
By honoring Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, the 12U Bartlett Rebels are reminding everyone that even the smallest gestures — a ribbon, a shared post, or a moment of silence — can mean the world to a family navigating loss.
How You Can Help
The team invites the community to join their effort:
Wear pink and blue during games and community events.
Share awareness posts on social media using hashtags like #BartlettRebels #PregnancyAndInfantLossAwareness #NeverForgotten.
Support organizations that provide emotional and financial assistance to families in need. Like the Tears foundation www.tearsfoundation.org
About the Bartlett Rebels 12U Team
The Bartlett Rebels 12U baseball team represents the heart of youth sports — hard work, community spirit, and family. Competing across the Midwest, the Rebels not only play competitive baseball but also embrace causes that bring their community together.
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