By: Ryan Luke
On the west side of Jacksonville in McGirts Creek Regional Park, one baseball league is redefining what it means to be a part of a team and to play the sport.
The Jacksonville Miracle League is an adaptive baseball league that provides children and adults with disabilities the opportunity to play in an inclusive and supportive environment.
To support its mission, the league uses volunteer “buddies” who help the players throughout games with actions such batting, throwing, and running the bases. Their help ensures that the players get to fully participate and experience some of the benefits and joy derived from the game.
For many families, however, the impact extends far beyond the field. Carey Hansen, president of the Jacksonville Miracle League, says the excitement the players get the moment they see the field is indescribable, and participating gives them a sense of pride.
“They have a team of their own, they have teammates, and they are bringing the family to watch their game finally,” Hansen said.
The organization’s influence also lies in its ability to provide a welcoming space where all players feel comfortable enough to be themselves. Sherri Snow, the league’s secretary and a parent of one of the players, says that people with disabilities are still largely overlooked by the community and that the league helps level the playing field. “Out here nobody looks at your disability, so they can be themselves and be around the same type of people,” Snow said. “We’re like a family out here.”
For parents like Tameka Jones, the environment upheld by the league has left a lasting effect. Her son Myles, who has autism, has gained both confidence and connection through the experience.
“There is a great support system,” Jones said. “It has built up his confidence, and it does give him a talking point because sometimes he does have a hard time starting conversations.”
The sentiment shared by the parents is perhaps best reflected by the athletes themselves. From friendships with buddies and teammates to getting to share the field with people like them, the athletes say that the experience is something they truly love.
“I just love it so much,” said player James Veasy. “I love to be with my buddies and my friends and baseball.”
With each swing, rounding of a base and crossing of home plate, the Jacksonville Miracle League continues to prove that baseball is a game for everyone and that every moment is worth celebrating.