Westlake assisted living host family sponsors another Lake Erie Crusher
The Belvedere of Westlake Assisted Living Facility this year has welcomed pitcher Travis Risser from the Lake Erie Crushers to be part of their family for the upcoming Frontier League season.
When two-year resident catcher Joel Collins retired, he contacted his friend Travis and informed him that his place at the Belvedere was available; Travis jumped at the opportunity to be part of the family.
On May 15, Travis along with fellow teammates Kellen Kulbacji, Kyle Weldon and team mascot Stomper appeared at a meet and greet reception at the Belvedere. The players signed autographs and entertained residents, family and friends. The evening ended with the players putting their signatures on the Belvedere’s custom PT Cruiser that is a tribute to the Lake Erie Crushers.
This is Travis’ third year with the Crushers. In 2011, Travis appeared in 35 games and had a record of 3-5 with 6 saves.
The Crushers' inaugural season in 2009 saw the Belvedere as the first assisted living in the country to sponsor a player from an Independent League team. Traditionally players are paid $500 to $1,600 a month, so the teams ask members of the community to open their homes in an act of community. Since the Belvedere sponsored a player in year one, four other Westside assisted living facilities have opened their doors to players over the past four seasons.
Steve Novak
Steve Novak lives in Westlake.