GRAND ISLAND, N.Y. (WKBW) — The Miracle League of Western New York and Grand Island gives an opportunity to everyone to play America’s pastime. Children and adults alike with special needs come together every week for games of baseball.
“You’re having a bad day? You’re not going to be when you watched one of these games. You just feel good,” parent and board member Sarah Gruszka said.
Everyone gets to bat in every inning. Several balls are rolled out to the field for the opposing team to throw back to their pitcher. Fun and inclusiveness take priority over competition.
“Our parents at the Miracle League, they’re not looking for their kids to bat second or third,” executive director Scott McManigle said. “They’re just hoping that their son or daughter’s mobility improves, or in some cases, that they can live a quality life.”
All of the players have a buddy that guides and supports them however they need throughout the game. In addition to the season-long volunteers, the Miracle League of Western New York also hosts youth teams, pro teams, and companies to be buddies.
“We welcome everybody,” McManigle said. “And we want to try to spread more awareness."
