Have you ever considered the optimal angle for throwing a baseball? What about the physics behind a curveball? Or have you marveled at the extensive mathematics and scientific principles involved in crafting a bat? And what does it take to achieve the perfect swing mechanics?
Bronson Balholm has them, and now several hundred children at Crieve Hall Elementary School do as well.
“Every aspect of the game involves some form of science,” Balholm explained to a gathering of third, fourth, and fifth graders at the Nashville school on May 9th.
Begin your day with more knowledge. Receive all essential news directly in your inbox every morning.
Balholm, who is 24 years old, plays as a catcher for The Party Animals, an exhibition baseball squad scheduled to face off against The Savannah Bananas in Nashville over the weekend. These touring teams have gained significant popularity due to their entertaining take on baseball called “banana ball,” which includes distinctive regulations, audience involvement, and dance intermissions. Their game will be held at Nissan Stadium on May 10th with all tickets sold out.
Fans First Entertainment
Best recognized for The Savannah Bananas, this entity was established in 2022 following the separation of the Bananas from a summer collegiate league. Currently, the group comprises four professional banana-themed baseball teams: The Savannah Bananas, The Party Animals, The Firefighters, and The Texas Tailgaters.
Prior to joining The Party Animals, Balholm obtained a degree in aerospace engineering from Arizona State University. Nowadays, during his travels with the team, he takes advantage of these trips to visit schools across the country, aiming to motivate students by discussing subjects such as science, engineering, technology, and mathematics, often referred to as STEM disciplines.
At Crieve Hall Elementary, he shared with the students how science, technology, engineering, and math concepts manifest in baseball—from a pitcher’s posture to the moment a bat meets the ball. During his presentation, he seamlessly integrated some valuable life lessons as well, emphasizing the significance of perseverance and being kind.
“MY principle and guiding force in life is ‘chasing compassion,’ ” stated Balholm.
After his presentation, he stayed behind to snap pictures and pen signatures. The children shared numerous embraces, laughter, and playful slaps-five amid their enthusiastic discussions of their freshly inscribed footwear and tops.
From aerospace engineering to baseball
How did Balholm, whose senior thesis focused on rocket science and alternative fuel types, end up joining The Party Animals?
He mentioned that his childhood aspirations were to become a professional baseball player and an astronaut.
Throughout his college years, he balanced academics with playing baseball. Come autumn of 2024, he received offers for a Minor League Baseball contract from both the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Seattle Mariners. Additionally, he was invited to join The Party Animals. Following some contemplation and heartfelt prayers, and observing how challenging it can be for his peers even when they reach the minors, he opted to venture into what others call “banana ball.”
“I brought my aerospace engineering degree and became part of the touring circus,” Balholm remarked with a chuckle.
He mentioned that his aspirations of becoming an astronaut might come into play further down the road. However, at present, he stated that he is fulfilling his baseball dreams and thoroughly enjoying every moment of it.
I feel incredibly fortunate,” Balholm stated. “This experience has taken me to parts of the world I’ve never visited before.
The narrative has been revised to include additional details.
The article initially appeared in the Nashville Tennessean.
Party Animals participant instructs Nashville children about the science behind baseball before the Savannah Bananas event.
