~Ethan Ali, Class of 2023
Memories that will last a lifetime
The Greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members
~Coretta Scott King
Miracle league is an all volunteer, non-profit organization that allows disabled children to play baseball as a part of a team. I play the role of the “buddy,” a companion who works one on one with a player. Together, my player and I run the field, take at bats and play three full innings of baseball. Volunteering for the Miracle League might be the most fulfilling activity that I have ever been involved in.
Saturday mornings, I awake ready to positively impact someone’s life and perhaps forge a new friendship with an individual of an entirely unique makeup and background to my own. Despite the various challenges and adversity that the players face on a daily basis, they are able to leave it all behind them and enjoy a day of baseball surrounded by caring teammates and loving family. Perhaps my most impactful experience with Miracle League occurred the first time I volunteered.
At my first game, I was paired with an autisitc 6th grader; his name was Shrae. I spoke briefly with Shrae’s parents just before the game started. They mentioned how Shrae was non-verbal, and therefore had a hard time connecting with people. As such, I knew I would need to maintain the flow of the conversation and make sure he felt comfortable.
When the ball game started, Shrae and I walked out to centerfield together and I spoke, he listened, and we both watched. Each player that stepped up to home plate was greeted to spirited applause by the spectators. Watching the players step in and run the bases and score was incredibly energizing, for both of us.
Shrae was totally involved, long before he took his first at bat. I will never forget that day. It was so impactful for me to directly participate in the joy and engagement Shrae and the other players felt, some of whom could smile externally, some who could not (but did so internally).
This organization provides an opportunity for connection and community to a group of people who deserve it most. The volunteers, the crowd, the staff, and most importantly, the players, come together and form a unique community unlike any I have ever seen or been part of before this time.
As I reflect on how the Miracle League affected my day to day life, I would have to say that I have become more optimistic about how I approach the “impossibilities” of life. Before Miracle League, I would’ve never imagined that children with disabilities would be able to play baseball as a part of a team.
Looking back, being a part of this community that provides children with disabilities an opportunity to play a game they love was for me a true blessing.
