For 95-year-old Linda Renico, life has always led back to Grove City, Ohio. She grew up there, raised her family there, and for nearly 70 years, lived in the same house on Eugene Street, just behind the high school. A proud 1954 Grove City High School graduate, she has cheered at the Grove City Alumni Tournament — famously known as the world’s largest alumni tournament — since the very first one more than 40 years ago. Even after moving to StoryPoint Pickerington, she’ll tell you herself: “I will always be a Grove City girl.”
This summer, Linda didn’t just attend the tournament — she took the field. Selected to throw the ceremonial first pitch, she was honored before stands full of friends, family, and Grove City residents who have cheered beside her for decades.
Her big day began at the StoryPoint Pickerington salon, where she got the star treatment. Back in the lobby, residents and staff lined the halls with homemade signs and cheers, sending her off in true hometown-hero fashion. At Fryer Park, Linda greeted old friends and soaked in the excitement of the event she’s loved for so long.
And then, it was time. With no hesitation, Linda wound up and delivered a perfect pitch straight down the middle to “Iron Horse” Russ Evans. The crowd erupted, and her smile said it all — she had done it.
The celebration continued with hugs, laughter, and even a celebratory shot of Crown Royal.
For Linda, the moment was more than a pitch — it was a dream come true!
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We know how important it is to find a community that cares for your loved one as much as you do. Discover StoryPoint Group — a personalized senior living experience tailored to the ones who matter most. Schedule a tour of your nearest community or connect with us by phone at 1-844-275-9990 to get answers to your questions, or just to say hello.
