The Miracle League of New Albany New Albany, Ohio
Services Provided
Master Planning
Landscape Architecture
Fundraising Support
Construction Documentation
People Involved
Tim Schmalenberger
Amy Kaye Taylor
Sarah Richardson
Award
2022 Ohio Parks & Recreation Association Award of Excellence
An accessible baseball field for children of all ages and abilities.
The Miracle League of New Albany is a fully accessible baseball park for children of all ages and abilities. The Miracle League of New Albany is one of 300 leagues in five countries each with a mission to promote inclusion, equality, and community. This field is dedicated to those who love the game, no matter their ability or disability because “Every Child Deserves the Chance to Play Baseball.” - miracleleague.com.
The Miracle League Fields are designed for inclusivity. The outfield is slightly shorter than a traditional baseball field and the entire surface is rubberized including the dugouts. These features allow easy mobility on and off the field. In addition, the grandstands include seating spaces for wheelchair spectators and their companions. All parking and drop off areas adjacent to the park are flush to the sidewalks for ease of transition from transportation to the stadium.
The Miracle League of New Albany was founded by Kevin Klingele and his family. Their dream came to life through the coming together of community with extensive fundraising, generous donations, and volunteer opportunities. The build team consisting of MKSK, Corna Kokosing, B7 Construction, EMH&T, Moody Nolan, J. Beckner Construction, George J. Igel & Co., and the City of New Albany donated personnel, time, and expertise to design and build The Miracle League of New Albany.
The location of the baseball stadium was chosen to take advantage of existing site features including proximity to existing parking, a mature tree canopy, and a stormwater filtration basin. The beautiful large trees were saved, protected, and carefully constructed around the site to enhance the stadium experience and make it feel right at home within its surroundings. This special park is adjacent to a school, a community pool, park, and traditional ball fields.
The Miracle League of New Albany celebrated its grand opening in the fall of 2021, featuring two opening games. Playing divisions of all ages and abilities will compete in spring and fall seasons. Families and fans are invited to enjoy games from the stadium seating, tree lined back field ridge, or anywhere they feel comfortable surrounding the field.
