Join Ryan Lavarnway as he reads his book, Baseball and Belonging, and answers audience questions. Ryan’s unique speaking style will leave you inspired to embrace your own journey toward faith and self-discovery.
As a child, Ryan’s confidence soared when he had a glove and a ball in his hand. Off the field, he struggled to find where he belonged. Playing in the Word Baseball Classic and Olympics with his teammates changed his life. By embracing his Jewish identity, Ryan found where he belonged.
Ryan Lavarnway is a retired Major League Baseball catcher. Over his fifteen-year career, Ryan represented eight different teams in the Major Leagues, including the 2013 World Series Champion Boston Red Sox. He also proudly represented Israel internationally in both the World Baseball Classic and the Olympics, which earned him recognition in the Southern California Jewish Sports Hall of Fame in 2019. Recently, Ryan was named at the 11th most influential Jewish athlete of all time.
After story time, Ryan will autograph his book. Stay longer and you will have the opportunity to take photos of Ryan with your child.
Make sure to stop at the Festival Bookstore and purchase the book prior to the event!
12PM
Book signing with Ryan Lavarnway
Photo ops with Spikes, the Redwings mascot!
12PM-2PM Family Day Activites
Join us for activities and games in the gym (free)
Kosher snacks provided
Photo ops with Ryan (free)
