Battlefields to Ballfields

It’s called Battlefield to Ballfield (B2B), and this nonprofit provides unique support for transitioning military members. B2B gives veterans the opportunity to reintegrate back into their communities through sports officiating. 

B2B founder, Mike Pereira explains, “I came up with the idea in 2016,” Pereira explained. “I know a lot has changed since then, but one thing that hasn’t changed is the need for servicemen and women to have a meaningful second career once they leave whatever branch of service they served.”  Pereira noticed that military men and women love being a part of a team. He said, “That is one of the hard parts of leaving active duty. You are no longer part of a team!”  

Pereira was convinced that officiating could become a helpful mechanism for anyone who had served in the military to become part of a new team, one that is similar to their old team in many respects. “When we started out, I wasn’t sure what to expect,” he added. “I must say, the response has been terrific.  We have B2B members in all but three states in our country.  Some of our earliest members have already climbed into officiating in the college ranks, in any number of different sports.” 

Many people associate officiating with one specific sport, but Periera confirmed his members work in baseball, softball, volleyball, soccer, track and field, lacrosse, and more. “If a game is to be played, it needs to be officiated,” he said. 

While many service members played sports prior to their recruitment or enlistment, knowledge in officiating is not a necessary to join the program. B2B offers training for those who want to learn how to officiate, in the sport of their choice!   

Periera notes his program offers a new lease on life, especially for those who are no longer able to competitively play sports anymore. “While playing is not an option, officiating certainly is.  That’s what we mean in saying ‘between the white lines.’ A person still has the opportunity to be on the field, the diamond, the court, the rink, or whatever it may be. Officiating allows them to transition from one field to another,” he said. 

For more information on B2B, click HERE.