Frequently Asked Questions
Last Updated: January 01, 2025
What is a Miracle League field?
A Miracle League field is a custom-designed field with a cushioned, rubberized turf to help prevent injuries, wheelchair-accessible dugouts and a completely flat, barrier-free surface to provide accessibility for visually impaired players, players in wheelchairs or with other assistive equipment. The field is completely fenced in providing another level of safety. A Miracle League field provides opportunities for children with physical and cognitive challenges to participate in recreational activities in an accessible, nurturing, and non-competitive environment where families can come together to cultivate new friendships and experience the joy of play.
Where is the Miracle League of Northern Connecticut?
The Miracle League field of Northern Connecticut is located at Northeast School in Vernon, 69 East St. in Vernon, CT. I has a synthetic short turf surface that is fully accessible. Bases and pitching mounds are painted onto the surface so that there are no raised obstacles that you would find on a typical baseball field. The dugouts are enlarged to accommodate wheelchairs and other apparatus. The pitching mound is slightly raised to create run off so no water pools on the surface. The base path, pitching, and outfield fence distances are a bit shorter than a typical Little League field. The goal was to make this field appear as similar as possible to a typical Little League field while allowing accessibility and safety for all. The Miracle League Field of youth soccer, disabled veterans, senior citizens, kickball and lacrosse leagues as well.
Are there other Miracle League fields?
Yes, there are over 350 nationwide. There are two other fields in Connecticut. One in West Hartford and another in East Lyme. The Miracle League is a national organization that provides guidance and program support for starting a Miracle league and constructing fields in local communities. The first Miracle League field was built in Conyers, Georgia in 2000.
Is this project registered as a 501c3 non-profit organization?
Yes
Who can use this field?
The town of Vernon has full access to the field for usage during the school day. Miracle League programing is offered after school hours and on weekends. Usage is limited to organizations that service-disabled citizens. Permission must be granted by Miracle League of Northern CT and the Town of Vernon. The field remains locked when not in use.
What programs are currently offered?
Fall soccer will be offered through Vernonsoccerclub.org.
Gymnastics is being offered through Tri-Town Gymnastics in Tolland
Bowling is offered November-March at Spare Time Vernon Lanes
Baseball is offered late April-June
Lacrosse is offered late April-June
Contact Laurel Leibowitz :Teacherleibo@gmail.com
Did the project involve tax payers funding?
NO tax money was used for the field.
Will the turf need to be replaced in the future?
Yes, the turf will need to be replaced in about 12-15 years. But the program will raise and continue to fundraise not just for original construction but for future replacement costs.
How will funding be raised?
Miracle League accepts donations towards programing and field replacement needs. There are four signature events which will happen yearly at least until the reserve fund is reached. A Winter Baseball Clinic for Youth, a Spring Golf Tournament, a Fall Gala and Breakfast with Santa. Details of these events can be found on our website. We continue to search out Grant Funding and corporate donations.
How is the project being managed?
The project was launched by Steve and Laurel Leibowitz. It is now being governed by an Executive Committee, Board of Directors and an Advisory Council to manage fundraising, finance, communications, etc. Committees and subcommittees support the initiatives and events. We welcome and encourage community members to share their talents and join our village.
How can I help?
There are multiple ways you can assist, here are a few options.
● Volunteer – go to our website Miracle League of Northern Connecticut (miracleleaguenorthernct.org) and enter your information to get involved.
● Participate in Events – keep an eye on our social media sites to see upcoming events and please join the fun.
● Donate – our web site allows you to donate directly to the project. Or feel free to contact Steve or Laurel directly about a gift.
● Be an Ambassador – help spread the word about the program. The project is for our community and the more people who are aware and help the more successful we will be.
Where can I get more information?
You can find us on the web, Facebook, or Instagram
Our Website: Miracle League of Northern Connecticut (miracleleaguenorthernct.org)
Instagram: @MiracleLeaguenct
Facebook: Miracle League of Northern Connecticut | Facebook
How can I keep updated on progress?
Facebook page, Website, and ongoing communications