Each summer, hundreds of children with disabilities gather at John Wollner Fox Cities Memorial Field to play baseball. Supported by several funds within the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region, The Miracle League of the Fox Valley provides a safe, welcoming, and fully accessible baseball experience for children who may not otherwise have the opportunity to participate in the sport.

“The Community Foundation is excited to partner with Goodwill North Central Wisconsin on ensuring that everyone in our community has the opportunity to participate in baseball where confidence is built and the value of teamwork is instilled,” said Megan Schuessler, Vice President of Donor Services & Gift Planning. “We are thrilled that The Miracle League of the Fox Valley provides this experience and that so many people in our community want to be a part of it through funding and volunteer opportunities.”

Since launching its first season in 2010, the program has seen remarkable growth. What started as eight teams and under 100 players has grown into 16 teams, 242 athletes, more than 350 volunteers, and four nights of play every week throughout June and July. Playing on a rubberized field to maximize accessibility for players who use wheelchairs, walkers, or crutches, each athlete is also provided with options tailored to their developmental and skill level, which include communication boards, modified baseballs, and other accommodations. Each athlete is also paired with a volunteer “buddy” who helps them navigate the game and supports them throughout the season.

“We had a player last year who started the season in a wheelchair. By the last week of games, he was able to bat and walk the bases, assisted by his buddy,” shared Jennifer Haberman, program leader for The Miracle League Fox Valley. “His whole team followed him as he walked the bases and crossed home plate. It was such a memorable and heartwarming experience to watch. There wasn’t a dry eye on the field that night.”

In addition to learning and playing baseball, players also develop life skills including teamwork, communication, relationship-building, and social engagement. Families have a chance to cheer from the stands, connect, and see their children celebrated. Volunteers return season after season, forming lasting relationships with their buddies.

Each game consists of two innings and begins with the National Anthem. Between innings, players head out to the field and, along with fans, sing “Take Me Out to the Ball Game”.  Each athlete has an at bat, runs the bases, and scores. The game always ends in a tie, and all players line up to exchange high-fives.

The Miracle League of the Fox Valley is a program of Goodwill North Central Wisconsin and is affiliated with the National Miracle League. It was founded in 2008 by local parents Lisa and Mark Robbins, who were inspired by their son’s experience playing with the Miracle League of Green Bay.

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Want to learn more about The Miracle of the Fox Valley? Visit https://goodwillncw.org/mlfv.

To volunteer or become a buddy, visit https://goodwillncw.org/mlfv/volunteer-registration