Red Sox players spend the day playing golf for kids

FORT MYERS – Today Red Sox players traded in their bats for clubs to donate their time in hopes of making a difference for some kids.

It’s safe to say many of the guys at Forest Country Club would admit they need to stick to baseball. Today, however, their score or how they played didn’t matter, because they showed up to raise money for Gilasano Children’s Hospital.

“I’ve been battling cancer for about seven years,” said Chansen Savakinus, a patient from the children’s hospital.

Chansen just finished treatment. He had leukemia.

“I’ve gotten an experience (of) what it’s like to have leukemia and how tough it can be with or without help,” Chansen said, “So it’s nice to have some help with these donations.”

WINK Sport Director, Bill Halter, was emcee of the event that brought dozens of stars to the course including Red Sox Manager, John Farrell.

“Anytime that we have a chance to interact with the public to attach ourselves to a great cause, such as the children’s hospital, this is a fun day for all of us,” Farrell told WINK News.

Wally the green monster (the Red Sox mascot) was even there to swing some clubs. Overall, when the fun and games are done, organizers are hoping they can generate $1 million to go to Golisano Children’s Hospital.

“It’s a great place to be,” said Red Sox Pitcher, Justin Masterson, “Been here a long time, so it’s great to be a part of Fort Myers, enjoy everything and kind of help out.”

While the players are the ones signing the autographs, it’s the kids who fight who are the real heroes.

“It’s tough, but there’s always light at the end of the tunnel,” Chansen told WINK News, “so you just got to buckle down and get through it.”