Miracle League

My brother Kevin is actively involved in working with and supporting the Miracle League of Central Illinois.  They are based out of Bloomington, and he gives a lot of time to them. Alice and I decided to go down for a game on Sunday, and we learned quite a bit about this organization.  If you love kids, baseball, and helping those with special needs, this is a group for you!

There are over 100 leagues nationwide.  All are funded differently.  The Central Illinois League is in need of funding; they now play on a Pony ball field, but they're working on raising money to build a cushioned ball field.  This is a sample of the dream material:

Moving beyond the business of the league, I have to admit, I found myself choked up a lot while watching the two games I stayed for.  They were such fun, and everyone was just so happy!  Each player has a buddy, and my brother tells me the same preteens, teens, and young adults come out each Sunday to help.  Some stay for all three games.

 A buddy helps with warm-ups.

 Line up and introductions (over a PA)!

 Ayyy batter...

 A dad brings his son up to bat...

and they run to first base after a hit.

 This White Sox player is wheelchair bound, but for fielding  he comes out and scoots all over the field.  He is talented. He bats from the chair and races to the bases.

 Waiting for a pitch.

A Sox catcher tells a Yankee base runner to touch home plate.

 For most it's coach pitch.

 Safe!
Many players fun on their own, and the buddies stay with them.

 Some batters use a tee.

 Even the fans are cute--this is Cubs' player Caleb's little brother Cooper. 

He liked Alice a bit...

 Cubs vs. Red Sox

 Karen the Cub

 Not sure where she is going here, I know her mom told her not to!

 A buddy helping with a swing

 Tapping the plate for luck

 Betty, aged 72

Headed for first base after a solid hit!

Everyone hits, everyone scores.  There's a grand slam at the end of each inning!  Music is played, dancing is done, people yell and cheer!  It's summer sweetness.

The funny thing, there are kids who know the rules, and you can tell they are working to keep "real score," but they too are caught up in the joy and the chance to play ball!