Lincoln Softball Volunteers with Miracle League

[September 19, 2019] 

On Sunday, September 15th the Lincoln College Softball team and coaching staff made its annual trip to Bloomington, Illinois to volunteer for the Miracle League of Central Illinois. The Miracle League is a non- profit organization that provides an opportunity for children with mental and/or physical challenges to play baseball on a specially designed rubber field. Miracle League baseball offers a unique and memorable opportunity for children with special needs.

At the event, Lincoln College players served as buddies and coaches for two three-inning baseball games in which each participant had the opportunity to run the bases and score a run. Players who need help with hitting, catching and throwing the ball are paired with a “buddy” who helps them out.

LC sophomore Olivia Sanders was excited about the opportunity to help with the program. “It's such a rewarding experience to get to help the players of the Miracle League,” said Sanders. “Seeing how excited they get, is such an awesome feeling. As an athlete it makes you really thankful for the game. We meet some of the best people there and they love to see us volunteer. I can't wait for next year!”

Senior Seleste Smith agreed. “Volunteering with the Miracle League was a life changing experience. Sharing the love of the game with these individuals made me love the game more! Every year I look forward to helping with the Miracle League. Just seeing their faces lit up when they play while we are dancing and singing and just making them laugh has made me the happiest! The miracle league is a great experience and I hope to help out in the future!”

“Volunteering gives you a whole different outlook on things,” said LC freshman Bailey Wilkinson. “It's not about making money, it's the bond, new friends, and new things that you get to you learn. Today we got to experience something we love the game of ball and got to spend time with new friends together.”

Head Coach Boyd Nowicki was again pleased with the outcome the event. “This was Lincoln’s second year being buddies for the Miracle League players, but Stacey and I’s 5th or 6th time taking a team up there together. It’s always been one of my favorite days with the team. You just cannot beat the smiles on our players faces, but more importantly the players and parents we are there for. Such a great time!”

[Mark Tippett
Lincoln College
Sports Information]