Base by Pros Donates $10,000 to Support YMCA Miracle League Baseball
MONROE, WA. April 20, 2023 – Miracle League Baseball, one of the Y’s adaptive sports programs offered by the Monroe/Sky Valley Family YMCA in partnership with Monroe Rotary, opens its season on Saturday, April 22 at 9 am at Monroe Rotary Field (372 Sky River Parkway, Monroe, WA 98272). Thanks in part to a $10,000 donation from Base by Pros, the program is subsidized so all athletes can participate for free.
“Being involved with Miracle League Baseball is one of the most rewarding parts of my job,” said Gina Casagrande, Executive Director, Monroe/Sky Valley Family YMCA. “The generous donation from Base by Pros allows us to run this program at no cost to participants and grow our program so more athletes can join in the fun and give parents of these athletes a chance to relax and fully be a spectating fan.”
Miracle League Baseball is 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 hits, everyone runs bases, and everyone gets home. This program is open to the community.
Former Major League Baseball player, Base by Pros co-owner, and Cascade High School alum, Steven Souza Jr., has been involved with Miracle League Baseball in other cities and upon his return to Snohomish County, wanted to give back and get involved with the program.
“I was super involved with Miracle League when I played in Tampa Bay,” said Souza. “I went out one time and immediately fell in love with the kids and the program. I volunteered as often as I could.”
All Miracle League Baseball athletes are partnered with a buddy to help them bat, run bases, and play in the field. Parents and guardians may sit in the stands to watch and cheer for their player.
“At Base by Pros, we train baseball and softball players of all skill levels and abilities,” said Souza. “Getting involved with Miracle League is a natural extension of what we do. Using the game of baseball is the perfect avenue to give back to the community and give these incredible athletes an opportunity to have fun and find success on the field.”
Miracle League Baseball relies on volunteer support and there are opportunities to volunteer for the upcoming season.
“I encourage others to go out and attend a game,” said Souza. “Hang out with the kids, be servants, and have fun. It’s a meaningful experience for everyone – players, families, and volunteers.”
For more information about Miracle League Baseball, please contact Ford Lowery at flowery@ymca-snoco.org. To learn about sponsorship opportunities and to help expand adaptive sports programs across Snohomish County, please contact Gina Casagrande at gcasagrande@ymca-snoco.org.