At the Highland Friendship Club's bowling fundraiser Nov. 27 at Saxon Lanes in Little Canada, Minnesota Twin Joe Mauer proved that he is at home in any arena.
Mauer said he takes part in the annual event because he has longtime ties to the community. In high school, he became buddies with Mike (Moose) Leseman, the special-needs younger brother of one of Mauer's best friends, Tony Leseman. In 2002, Mike and Tony's mom, Pat Leseman, started the Highland Friendship Club with Rosemary Fagrelius, who also wanted to find fun activities for her teenage son, who has disabilities.
The two joined forces and built the group from 12 to 180 kids, who choose to do music, art, cooking, cultural and fitness-related activities.
"We go to the events and [our sons] have their own friends, who aren't their brother, sister or uncle," said Fagrelius. "We're building community."
At the event, Mauer posed for photos with fans (including the University of Minnesota's basketball team), caught up with his Cretin-Derham Hall High School buddies (including Jack Hannahan of the Boston Red Sox), cheered on bowlers and downplayed his skills. "I hope I can get over 100," he said. But when it was time to bowl, Mauer took out a custom ball and bowled a strike in the first frame. His final score: 240. He swings, he scores -- no matter the sport.
Sara Glassman • 612-673-7177
