The batting cages at Play It Again Sports, located on Madison Street in Forest Park, have been officially named in honor of Eddie Sitzman, a cherished employee and community member from Oak Park and River Forest. The dedication ceremony took place on February 25, 2026, marking a heartfelt tribute to Sitzman, who tragically passed away at the age of 21 last year.
Sitzman was a dedicated worker at Play It Again for over four years and was well-known for his enthusiasm for baseball, often hitting balls in the batting cages at the back of the store. Erich Krumrei, the owner of Play It Again Sports, described the initial challenges of hiring Sitzman, who had Down syndrome. Krumrei recalled having numerous discussions with Sitzman’s parents about how best to support him. Over time, Sitzman became an integral part of the store’s culture, demonstrating reliability and a positive spirit during his shifts.
Krumrei reflected on the profound loss felt by the team at Play It Again, stating, “It was a huge, huge loss, not just for the business, but for all of us who work here, losing a friend and a colleague like that.” He emphasized that Sitzman contributed significantly to the store’s standing as a valued small business in the community.
In addition to the dedication of the batting cages, the store is showcasing a framed jersey featuring Michael Jordan‘s number alongside Sitzman’s name and his memorable quote: “Michael Jordan played one sport. I played them all.” This quote resonated with Sitzman’s family after they watched “The Last Dance” together.
Sitzman was an accomplished athlete, having earned 59 Special Olympics medals across various sports, including track and field, soccer, and basketball. He was also a leader within the Special Olympics community, advocating passionately for athletes with disabilities. His father, Mark Sitzman, shared his pride, noting, “Everybody here knows Eddie as a really capable, confident, kind person and super competitive, just a natural athlete.”
The dedication ceremony was attended by around two dozen community members, including friends, family, and local officials. Mark Sitzman expressed gratitude for the support received from the community, recognizing the connections Eddie had formed through his various roles.
Eddie was involved in the Community Integration Transition Education program (CITE) offered by School District 200, which provides vocational training and support for young adults with disabilities. Through CITE, he volunteered at the Oak Park Fire Department, Wonder Works Children’s Museum, and served as a teacher’s assistant at local schools. Phil Carmody, president of Opportunity Knocks, a nonprofit dedicated to fostering community among individuals with disabilities, praised the way Krumrei and his staff embraced Sitzman, highlighting the positive culture at Play It Again Sports.
Sitzman also contributed to the fire department, visiting every Thursday to assist with daily operations. Firefighter Nathan Holdman remarked on the camaraderie Sitzman fostered, saying, “He fell right into our camaraderie. He was one of us.”
Sitzman’s passing occurred last July, shortly before he was set to attend Judson University in Elgin, where he planned to study child development. He was awarded the Ruby Rainbow’s highest-level scholarship for his community commitment and academic achievements. Krumrei had even promised to promote Sitzman to a managerial position upon his graduation, stating, “He was always asking to do more things in the store.”
Mark Sitzman thanked Krumrei for creating a supportive environment for his son, acknowledging the dignity and sense of belonging that Play It Again provided. He said, “You gave us a sense that there’s hope for him for the rest of his life.”
Community members, including longtime family friends, shared their memories of Eddie, highlighting his vibrant personality and passion for sports. Mia Toschi, who has known Eddie’s mother since childhood, remarked, “He was so funny, smart, gentle and kind. He was a remarkable kid and, as much as we miss him, he’ll be in our hearts forever.”
The dedication of the Eddie Sitzman Cages at Play It Again Sports serves as a lasting tribute to a young man who made an indelible impact on the lives of those around him, demonstrating the power of community and connection.
