For the past ten years, the National Miracle League has made it possible for Children with physical and mental disabilities to achieve the same dream as their healthy peers -- to play baseball, these children get a reprieve from their daily challenges as soon as they step or roll out onto the ball field.  Check out www.miracleleague.com.

Through donations from sponsors and the commitment of volunteers, the joy that this program brings to these awesome children is immeasurable. The Miracle League also works to build specially equipped baseball fields for our players. It is a custom-designed field that incorporates a cushioned synthetic turf where children in wheelchairs and walkers are able to glide unrestricted to their positions without fear of injury. In other words, it provides a level playing field where children with physical and mental disabilities can hit, run and catch – just as they envisioned in their dreams.

The games are unique in that they are adapted to fit the needs of the athletes playing. They consist of:
¨ Every player bats once each inning (game is two innings)
¨ All base runners are safe
¨ 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

Children with special needs aren’t the only ones who benefit from the action on the field. Through the “buddy” program, youth players and community volunteers partner with our players to provide assistance and encouragement. This partnership benefits both sides as they share the great American pastime to find common ground and, most importantly, friendships.

It is truly a Grand Slam – The children benefit, the parents, the buddies and the community because of the impact of all involved and the relationships that are built. These athletes begin to see that they can fit into our community.

We at the Miracle League of Concord will continue to work hard to provide opportunities for all kids to play baseball and enjoy being apart of a winning team!