WRAL Sports Fan

WRALSportsFan

Cary League Helping Baseball Dream Come Alive For Some Special Kids

Nov 10, 2006

CARY, N.C. — Miracle League Field at Adams Elementary School is a place where dreams come true and miracles really do happen.

Currently, about 80 players divided into eight teams make up the

Miracle League of the Triangle

, which makes it possible for children who face day-to-day challenges to suit up for competition that they've previously only been able to watch.

"The overwhelming feeling that you get when you know they can't participate on the level that they watch is heartbreaking," said Dick Hodgin, whose son, Sam, participates in the program. "When they get to cross that barrier and actually get out on the floor, it's a pretty amazing feeling."

In the Miracle League -- its motto: "Every child deserves a chance to play baseball" -- every player bats, all runners are safe and each team wins every game. The field is covered with a soft surface to allow players to move around freely.

"How can you not have a good feeling coming out here watching these kids put a big smile on their face when they get a chance to hit a ball or field a ball?" said Robin Rose, the league's co-chair.

Saturday marks this season's opening day. Game time is 9 a.m. at Adams Elementary School at

805 Cary Town Boulevard

. An opening ceremony is scheduled for 10 a.m., followed by three more games.

"For the parents, it'll probably be a good day to cry," said Rob Alexander, whose son, Ladd, will play. "For the kids, they'll have a blast."

"I feel like a regular baseball player, and it's really fantastic," said Ladd. "I feel like a professional, you know what I mean?"

• Reporter: Jeff Gravley
• Photographer: Jeff Gravley
• Web Editor: Kelly Gardner