Miracle League of Blair County celebrates opening day

ALTOONA, Pa. (WTAJ) — Miracle League of Blair County celebrated the opening day of their 18th season on Saturday as teams hit the field despite the rainy conditions.

The Miracle league is focused on removing barriers for children with mental or physical disabilities and allowing them to have fun playing baseball. It’s the first year playing for 11-year-old Colton Hammel, who said he’s been practicing for a while for this opportunity.

“I’m most looking forward to hitting a home run,” Hammel said.

Vice president of the Miracle League of Blair County K.C. Sims said there are many things that make the league great — especially their focus on brining people and teammates together.

“You can’t come out and not be excited and not feel good,” Sims said.

This is Sims’ first year helping to manage the league and he also coaches his son’s team, the Athletics. He said his favorite part is seeing his son be able to interact with other kids outside of a classroom.

“I can’t believe that he knows their names, and when we see them he gives high fives to everybody,” Sims said. “Quincy is like the mayor, he just rolls around and does what he wants here. It’s a very safe place to be.”

To help provide uniforms, food stand favorites and keep the field in top shape, the league relies mostly on donations and volunteers. Sims said they hope to be able to get a new turf playing surface in the next year or so, and are planning some fundraisers for that and other projects.

One fundraiser already planned is Cow Patty Bingo at Lakemont Park on June 5.

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“You’re able to purchase a ticket for 5 dollars and you would have a particular square in your name,” Sims said. “When the cow comes out and does its business on one of those squares that person would be the winner.”

More information on how to volunteer or donate is available on the league’s website .

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