Left, entrance to the Miracle field. At right, an aerial view showing the layout of how the field will look when it is completed. 
Local nonprofit Southwest Michigan Miracle League (SMML) hosted an event to celebrate the special baseball field that will help area kids with disabilities enjoy America’s favorite pastime. SMML has been working to raise funds to build a custom-designed baseball field in southwest Michigan for kids with physical, visual and other disabilities. The Miracle Field is located near The Dome Sports Center at 12733 US-131 in Schoolcraft. A Miracle Field is a custom-designed baseball field with a cushioned, rubberized surface to help prevent injuries, wheelchair-accessible dugouts, and a flat playing surface to eliminate barriers to wheelchairs or visually impaired players. Community volunteers called “buddies” work with each Miracle League player, helping them enjoy the game, allowing players’ families to watch and cheer from the stands as their child plays. Jud Hoff, president of SMML, thanks donors and the community for making it possible to bring the dream of the Miracle League to southwest Michigan. “Unfortunately, due to COVID, we have to delay our official opening until the spring. But we didn’t want this major milestone to go by without thanking and acknowledging the many people and organizations who helped us get here.” The organization continues to raise funds to complete the field.