ORLANDO, Fla. – A special needs baseball league in Orlando is preparing for a new season after the community raised more than $100,000 to replace its aging field and keep the program alive.
Central Florida Miracle League has played at Trotter’s Park for about 20 years. Earlier this year, the field had deteriorated so badly it had become unplayable, putting the future of the league at risk.
League president Mike Houlihan said the process to raise enough money took an emotional toll on him and everyone involved.
“This field just brings tears to my eyes,” Houlihan said. “I know where we were. I know what it took to get here.”
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The former field was nearly unplayable, had a significant drainage problem, and became a safety hazard due to the chunks of turf that were missing on the playing surface. Houlihan said it was a heartbreaking situation for the athletes.
“This is like a field of dreams,” he said while looking out at the new field. “It actually is our field of dreams.”
The league faced a choice: raise enough money to replace the field or shut down operations at Trotter’s Park. They spent years asking for donations but reached a plateau after reaching about 70% of the estimated cost.
Awareness grew after News 6 reported on the league’s fundraising challenges. Donations soon followed, ranging from small contributions to major gifts.
“We had donations from $5 to $40,000,” Houlihan said. “This is the only special needs field in this area, and they didn’t even know we existed. They do now.”
About eight months after the fundraising push began, the $273,000 is ready ahead of the upcoming spring schedule.
“You got results,” Houlihan said. “I mean, look at it. I feel like I should’ve brought my glove.”
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While the field is complete, the league’s focus is shifting to building accessible bathrooms. The nearest restrooms are located inside the neighboring Orlando Babe Ruth complex, creating challenges for players.
“It’s really difficult for the wheelchairs to make it over there,” Houlihan said. “Also, if the Babe Ruth league isn’t playing, those are locked. So, we have one port-a-john.”
For now, Houlihan is enjoying the league’s new diamond, and reflecting on the players past and present, including those who never got to see the upgrade completed.
“I think about the players who played on the old field, but I also think about the players who unfortunately aren’t with us anymore who didn’t get to see this,” he said with tears in his eyes. “That’s what was driving us. That’s what was driving all of our board members. I wish they could’ve seen it.”