The Miracle League of Connecticut, which is based in West Hartford, needs volunteers to work with players this spring.

A Miracle League of CT participant and buddy. Photo courtesy of Miracle League of CT

By Ronni Newton

More participants than ever have registered for the Miracle League of Connecticut’s spring baseball season that begins on Sunday, April 26, and the organization is desperately in need of volunteer “buddies” to assist the players on the field.

“The buddies are a really  important part of our organization,” said Miracle League of Connecticut Vice President Ronit Shoham. “It really enhances the experience of the kids and helps them meaningfully engage in the game of baseball.”

Participation in the Miracle League is open to children ages 4 and up who have physical or cognitive challenges, and there are more than 80 kids from 20 different towns registered to play baseball this spring, Shoham said.

There will be five teams, and three games taking place every Sunday at the Miracle League field at the Little League Complex at the corner of Asylum Avenue and Trout Brook Drive in West Hartford.

Shoham said that the goal is to have a one-on-one relationship between players and buddies. Most players have some type of impairment, and the role of a buddy might include pushing a wheelchair, holding a bat, or assisting a player who is visually impaired.

Buddies do not need to be available for every game, or even every Sunday, said Shoham. “We really appreciate any time they can give us,” she said.

The opportunity to be a buddy is open to anyone age 12 and up who has an interest in working with and becoming friends with children with physical and or cognitive challenges.

Shoham said that anyone interested in volunteering as a buddy should register on the Miracle League of Connecticut website. There is no cost, but registration with an email address is requested so that the organization can communicate with its volunteers. There will be a gathering of buddies on April 19, Shoham said, so that they can receive a t-shirt, instructions, and sign up for games and times that they are available.

To register, go to www.miracleleaguect.org.

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