Miracle League Field and Playground Opens in Brahan Spring Park
|
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 25, 2012
(Huntsville, AL) - Mayor Tommy Battle and the City of Huntsville's Parks & Recreation department held a grand opening today for the new Miracle League Field and Playground in Brahan Spring Park. The distinctive baseball field and play area is especially designed for children with disabilities.
The field includes a cushioned rubberized surface to help prevent injuries, wheelchair accessible dugouts, and a completely flat surface to eliminate any barriers to wheelchair-bound or visually impaired players.
"The Miracle League Field and Playground is another fine example of what can happen when a few passionate individuals take their dream to the community," said Mayor Tommy Battle. "Thanks to the initiative of Johnny Franklin, our special needs children have a field of their own."
Franklin, who has led the Miracle League program since 2002, was honored by the City and Miracle League Board with a new sign at the field bearing his name. According to his colleagues, Franklin has been responsible for the vast majority, if not all fund raising, that has resulted in the two Miracle League fields in Huntsville.
"Franklin has directed and managed the league's programs throughout its history with a love and a driving passion for the players," said Tony Osani, Miracle League board member. "The consensus of the Miracle League Board is that if it weren't for Johnny, there would not be a Miracle League in Huntsville."
Huntsville Recreation Services Director Steve Ivey says his department has been honored to work with Franklin and the Miracle League board.
"This project has been a true team effort, and I am proud of how everyone has worked together to make this happen for our special needs children," said Ivey.
Background
In the late 1980's, the City of Huntsville formed the Challenger League to offer the special needs children of Huntsville the opportunity to participate in the City's baseball program
In 2002, the City joined the Miracle League
Today, Huntsville's Miracle League has 170 participants who play baseball
2nd Miracle League Field in the City of Huntsville - both built as joint ventures with the Miracle League Program
The City of Huntsville is dedicated to providing an inclusive recreation environment to meet the needs and interests of all children
For more information, contact:
Kelly Cooper Schrimsher, Director of Communications, Office of the Mayor, City of Huntsville, 256-427-5006 (w), kelly.schrimsher@huntsvilleal.gov
###
Follow the City of Huntsville on Facebook at facebook.com/hsvcity and on Twitter at twitter.com/huntsvillecity
|
|
 |
