Every child should have the chance to play baseball, including children with physical and mental challenges. The desire to be part of a team, to dress out in a uniform and to run the bases like their peers led to the formation of The Miracle League, a non-profit organization that allows children and adults with disabilities to participate in America's favorite pastime.
History of The Miracle League
Rockdale (Atlanta, GA area) Youth Baseball Association's coach Eddie Bagwell saw the need for children with disabilities to be part of a team when Michael, a 7 year old in a wheelchair, came to every practice to cheer on his brother. Coach Bagwell invited Michael to join the team, and the idea of The Miracle League was born. That was in 1997, and by 1999, the league had grown to over 50 players. Realizing that so many children with disabilities were not able to participate in typical sports, the Rotary Clubs of Rockdale County and Conyers decided to take charge. They formed a 501(c)3 non-profit to raise the needed funds for accessible facilities and to encourage nationwide formation of Miracle Leagues.
The first Miracle League complex was completed in April of 2000. Designed with a cushioned rubberized surface to help prevent injuries and a completely flat surface to encourage wheelchair-bound, visually impaired, and players with walkers, crutches or leg braces, the complex also included accessible restrooms, a concession stand, and a picnic pavilion. This state-of-the-art design would be the model for many others throughout the nation.
How The Miracle League Works
Following the motto "Every Child Deserves A Chance To Play Baseball", rules for the games are simple and practical:
- Every player bats once each inning
- All players are safe on the bases
- Every player scores a run before the inning is over (last one up gets a home run)
- Community children and volunteers serve as ‘buddies’ to assist the players
- Each team and each player wins every game
Volunteer coaches, assistant coaches and "buddies" from the mainstream help the players by assisting them with hitting, catching, running and having a great time. These volunteers come from all walks of life and are very important to The Miracle League program. The mainstream community involvement allows much-needed interaction with the special needs community. Both benefit from this relationship remarkably.
Where Can I Find More Information About The Miracle League?
There are over 240 Miracle League organizations in the United States, including Puerto Rico, Canada and Australia. To find one near you, visit Miracle League.
The Miracle League is an innovative, exciting program that warms the heart and fills an incredible need. It brings communities together and gives children and adults with disabilities a chance to participate in sports in a non-threatening, supportive environment. Catch a Miracle League game and share in the magic. Better yet, volunteer! We'd love to have you!
Source: www.miracleleague.com
Tina Halbert - Tina M. Halbert, M.Ed., NBCT
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