CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV) -
Charlotte's first "Miracle League" baseball game is in the books. Wildly-appreciative fans give it two thumbs up.
The "Miracle League" is a baseball league aimed at giving children with disabilities a chance to play ball.
"It's for the kids who are so often on the sidelines," says Molly Thompson, a representative with the YMCA of Greater Charlotte, the league sponsor. "Each team and each player win every game. So far we have 40 kids registered, but we expect to grow. Raleigh's league had 40 players for their first game but are now looking at a roster with well over 100 and building a second field."
Charlotte's Miracle Field was all donated. It's located behind the University City YMCA. The Charlotte Knights are heavily involved and The University of North Carolina at Charlotte's baseball team was on-hand for the first game September 15th, 2012.
Anchor Molly Grantham and Photojournalist Leighton Grant were at that first game as well.
If you are interested in getting involved, the YMCA says it needs volunteers.
Everything from people who want to sing the National Anthem to getting matched up with a player as a "volunteer buddy". YMCA says volunteer opportunities are family friendly. It's hoping for kids of all ages to show up and cheer on the Miracle players themselves.
"One of the coolest parts about this league is the 'volunteer buddy' part," said Thompson. "Youth groups, corporate groups looking for a unique way to team build, high school clubs... they can all sign up to be matched up with an individual player. We give each player a 'buddy' who is in essence like a mentor. I can't wait for it all to kick off."
Go to www.ymcamiracleleague.org for more information.
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