MLSH began as Casey ’ s Clubhouse , before joining the national Miracle League franchise .
It launched its first season in 2012 with 50 players . This year the league has more than 400 players and welcomes children from all over the South Hills , including Brentwood , Baldwin and Whitehall . There are many benefits of participation for the kids besides being able to experience the thrill of playing on a team . It improves physical skills and allows the athletes the chance to get some sunshine and exercise along with some much-needed time away from electronics . They receive support from the community and also enjoy the social interaction with their teammates , coaches and the Buddies who help and encourage them throughout the game .
The Buddies are volunteers who help the athletes to participate . There is a minimum age of 12 to be a Buddy , but no upper age limit . Tim Gebhart , executive director of MLSH , notes that there are some in their 60s . Sometimes football teams , volleyball teams and other school groups get together to volunteer , while others help out as individuals on an ongoing basis .
In addition to regular season play , there ’ s a Spring Training Camp to get athletes ready , and even a winter conditioning program , Muscles for Miracles , which allows players to stay physically active throughout the offseason .
A special program that ’ s been added in recent years is called The Next Inning . It employs about 40 Miracle League athletes in the accessible concession stand that was built especially for them . The group of league athletes and former athletes get the chance to earn a salary for their service . Five of The Next Inning participants have gone on to secure jobs outside of MLSH . The program is so popular there a waiting list .
One of the highlights of participating in the Miracle League is a travel program , where players are able to compete against other teams in the U . S . In the past , they have traveled to Cincinnati , Ohio , and Pigeon Forge , Tennessee .
During his time in the majors , Casey was nicknamed “ The Mayor .” The moniker stuck because of his affable demeanor and his extensive charity work . These days , he is certainly the mayor of the Miracle League of the South Hills !
Gebhart says , “ This field that grew into a park has grown into a community , or better yet , a family . The impact of each gift , each volunteer , can be seen , felt and even hugged . At this field , between these lines , miracles happen .”
For more information , visit miracleleaguesouthhills . org . n
Sean Casey , founder of The Miracle League of the South Hills .
BRENTWOOD-BALDWIN-WHITEHALL ❘ SPRING 2024 11