An interview with John Everet before his game against angels
(Oct,26,2024), photo: Noah Maltzman
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The Miracle League Of Arizona is a non-profit organization that allows people to play baseball regardless of their need or disability. The opportunity to work in this league went through colleges in Maricopa County such as Arizona State University. As an intern at the Miracle League of Arizona, I could work with others who might not have the same background as me. Also, the Miracle League has given players a platform to make them feel well-represented and a part of a team while being active on the field. Most players have been wanting the player treatment of being interviewed or being traded to another team.
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This was taken on opening day for the Miracle League of Arizona which was September 21st, 2024 (Tyler Wargo)
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An interview with Jordan (J-Man) after his game when he had two hits to the outfield on October 26, 2024 (Tyler Wargo)
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I have interviewed players like Jordan who plays on the MLAZ Detroit Tigers and he has been playing in the league since 2011! Jordan heard about this league through a Diamondbacks fan fest and he questioned if he would ever play for a team. His dad agreed and signed him up with the Miracle League. Jordan plays in a wheelchair, but he can still swing the bat like a professional which makes him a source of talent in the league. He feels that the music and the attendance are what motivates him to keep showing up every Saturday to play.
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A competitive game between the Rangers and Angels on a Saturday evening. John Everett is up to bat on October 26, 2024. (Tyler Wargo)
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There are two different styles of a game that are played at certain times of the day. Some days the Miracle League will host a one-two-inning game by which every player in the lineup bats twice. Every player in this game has to round all bases regardless of the hit. More volunteers and staff are on the field with players during many at-bats to cheer and support the players rounding the bases. The other style of a game is the competitive game. These games are a little more serious and have only the players on the field. Instead of two innings being played, there are three full innings that are played and have a 3-out system but no ball or strike count due to fairness within the league. These competitive games are played later in the day from the 8-6 schedule. They are also played on Thursday nights as well. One player known as John Paul who plays for the Rangers, likes the competitive atmosphere and likes to feel rewarded after every game. “It makes me a better person and allows me to volunteer every Saturday,” says John on what motivates him to show up every game. Both these levels of baseball share the same MLB teams and every week the same teams face each other.
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The Miracle League has not only been taking place in the valley but in other places like its first location in Conyers, Georgia which started the league in the early 2000s. Danielle Downs is the executive director who has had ties to the Miracle League for 20 years back in Georgia before arriving at this “new” league in Arizona. Program Director Kyle O’Malley has ties with “The Miracle League of San Diego” and was able to expand the league to Arizona which also supported new community partnerships. He also participates as a player during games which shows the fans his commitment to the Miracle League and the mission of serving the special needs athletes. There were ten staff during the 2024 fall season including three interns. During each game, interns would work the jumbotron using a Vmix system. Another intern will use Spotify for the speakers to play walk-up music. Lastly, for interns, we would be positioned within the base paths being supportive. When I was interning, mid-season I eventually started announcing the player names. I would even commentate on players rounding the bases giving high-fives and crossing home plate to score.
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This is the "Hall Of Fame" wall which shines a spotlight on companies and individuals who have donated a large amount of money to support the non-profit organization.
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The Miracle League also welcomes interns who may not be in a journalism field as MLAZ has reached out to not only the Cronkite school but also the main campus in Tempe. The Miracle League of Arizona has been getting more recognized since the new location in North Scottsdale. The Miracle League games are played every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday which allows many family and friends to stay connected throughout the week while raising awareness and money for those who need it most. This league hosts fundraisers and events yearly. Promotions for fundraisers and events happen during games on Saturday and have people who are interested sign up. If they sign-up they could donate to the Miracle League of Arizona and participate. Whether it's the Fall, Winter, Spring, or Summer, Miracle League is keeping the same energy to the field by bringing awareness to those who want to play baseball.
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This video gives people a general idea and perspective on MLAZ and how it is ran. Also, this video provides insights and details on game-days. Enjoy the sights and sounds of MLAZ and feel the excitement as if you were there in attendance!
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