Lane Balch, son of Donald and Karen Balch, provided a helping hand to WRJW's Carey Meitzler

and Jason Pigott during the Maroon Tide WarmUp Pre-game Show before the Tide's encounter with

the Harrison Central Red Rebels on September 3, 2004. 

Carey told Lane late last season that he was invited to join Carey and Jason at the first home game of

the 2004 season.  Lane jumped at the opportunity and said "I've been waiting for this for a long time."

"It's the best view I've ever had at a Tide game and the next best thing was it had an air conditioner."

"Lane is a special person. His outlook on life inspires all those around, " said Carey Meitzler,

"He comes from a good family with a good, strong Christian upbringing.  I know my son Caleb

thinks the world of Lane.  I was so glad to give one of our most avid listeners a chance to work

some air time with us.  I think he liked it and probably has an appreciation and understanding that

one can only get by being here. "

"He did his homework, came prepared, and did a great job for his first time on radio," commented

long time radio broadcaster Jason Pigott.  "Lane was also funny.  It was a lot of fun having him

with us for the Pre-Game Show. It was our treat to give him the opportunity."