Miracle League: A Place for Everyone to Play
There’s something special that happens at Monroe Rotary Field on Saturdays every spring. Athletes from all over the county gather to play Miracle League Baseball. Miracle League programs are designed for individuals with diverse abilities requiring additional assistance to play the game. This program is adapted to be an inclusive, stress-free, non-competitive game where everyone plays and everyone finds success. This year, the baseball season kicks off on Saturday, April 20 with its 25th Anniversary celebration.
Lake Stevens brothers, Edge and Ezra Burkett, can’t wait to get back out on the field. You can tell how much they love Miracle League Baseball by the way their faces shine when they talk about it.
“It is the best sports program ever!” said Edge.
Edge and Ezra have medical conditions that impact their mobility. Traditional sports settings aren’t the best fit for the brothers.
“Miracle League Baseball allows my boys the opportunity to play and compete in a sport they love,” said Jannet Burkett, Edge and Ezra’s mom. “Edge has some mobility outside of his wheelchair, but the chair makes it easier for him to participate with his peers. Everyone can play.”
Miracle League Baseball joins other YMCA of Snohomish County Miracle League programs, including basketball and bowling, providing opportunities for athletes to experience the fun of playing recreational sports all year long.
Gina Casagrande, current Mill Creek Family YMCA Executive Director, worked closely with Miracle League Baseball when she was the Executive Director at the Monroe/Sky Valley Family YMCA and has been instrumental in bringing Miracle League Basketball to the Y.
“Miracle League is a place for everyone,” said Casagrande. “We want to get the word out and share with families who might feel like they need a spot for their child to play a sport. This is a judgment-free, positive place where we support all athletes, meeting them right where they’re at.”
All Miracle League athletes are partnered with a volunteer buddy to help them compete. In baseball, they help them hit the ball, run the bases, and play defense in the field. Parents and guardians are encouraged to sit in the stands to watch and cheer for their player.
“One of the special things about Miracle League sports is the parent network and support parents receive from each other,” said Casagrande. “Our parents rarely get a break, especially when their child may face additional daily challenges. Miracle League is a place where parents can sit back, relax, and let us help the athletes on the court. Parents can just be a spectator and cheer for their child.”
Miracle League programs are free and open to the community, made available through generous contributions to the YMCA’s Community Campaign.
To learn more about Miracle League Baseball, please visit: Miracle League Baseball – YMCA of Snohomish County. The Y invites the community to come out to Miracle League Opening Day on April 20 for food, fun, and lots of baseball and smiles.
