Games are being held at Boundless Field at Challenge Grove Park in Cherry Hill.
Miracle League fall baseball is in full swing at Boundless Field at Challenge Grove Park in Cherry Hill. The series, hosted by the Camden County Freeholder Board, is being held Saturdays through Oct. 14.
“Children in wheelchairs, kids who use walkers or kids who never would be able to round the bases on a regular baseball diamond are afforded the opportunity to participate in an organized sporting event like their peers,” Camden County Freeholder Deputy Director Ed McDonnell said. “The field’s 13,000 square foot rubber playing surface allows for handicapped accessibility. In addition, it is covered with a playing surface that provides color, durability and safety.”
Boundless Field opened in 2013 to accommodate handicap accessible baseball games and Special Olympics events. The field’s baselines are 50 feet from one another and the distance from home plate to the fence at center field is 125 feet. More than 100 children and adults with special needs, and community volunteers will gather at the nationally recognized venue each weekend this fall.
“Boundless Field offers new opportunities for these children and the freeholder board is proud to be part of a program that brings smiles to so many faces,” said Freeholder Jeff Nash, liaison to the Camden County Park System. “As elected officials, our goal is to improve the quality of life in Camden County, and this extraordinary place does just that for a special group of athletes.”
At a typical Miracle League game every player bats once per inning, players are not called out on the bases, every player scores a run each inning and both teams win the game. Players are given buddies to assist them during the game. The buddies are often brothers, sisters and friends, as well as other adults and children who volunteer their time to help players participate in the game.
This is one of the many programs organized by the Freeholder Board’s Division of Programming for People with Disabilities. Throughout the year, they sponsor numerous programs ranging from golf and horseback riding lessons to dances and bingo nights. For a complete list of activities, please visit, www.camdencounty.com/service/disabilities-special-needs.
