MILL CREEK—Miracle League Basketball, a new adaptive sports program for athletes with diverse abilities, kicks off its inaugural season at the Mill Creek Family YMCA on Sunday, February 25. This program joins other YMCA of Snohomish County Miracle League programs, including baseball and bowling, providing another opportunity for athletes with diverse abilities to experience the fun of playing recreational sports all year long.
“I got a phone call from a mom who was looking for a place for her child to land and she was told by others to contact the Y,” said Gina Casagrande, Executive Director, Mill Creek Family YMCA. “Typical sports settings were not the best fit or most inclusive for her child. I told her that she came to the right place and that we would love to offer a basketball program. It’s a priority for us to provide a place for all kids to play sports.”
Miracle League sports are designed for individuals with diverse abilities requiring additional assistance to play the game. This program is adapted to be an inclusive, stress-free, non-competitive game where everyone plays and everyone finds success. Miracle League basketball is free and open to the community.
Casagrande was heavily involved in Miracle League Baseball at the Monroe/Sky Valley Family YMCA before moving to the Mill Creek Y. She knows first-hand what a valuable program it is for athletes and their families.
“Miracle League is a place for everyone,” said Casagrande. “We want to get the word out and share with families who might feel like they need a spot for their child to play a sport. This is a judgment-free, positive place where we support all athletes, meeting themn right where they’re at.”
The six-week season meets on Sunday mornings when the Y is quieter and less busy, to provide the best environment. To start, the program will have two age divisions: age 5-11 and age 12+. The program may grow to accommodate age 18+, depending on interest level. Each group will play for an hour.
All Miracle League Basketball athletes are partnered with a volunteer buddy to help them dribble, shoot, and learn the game. Parents and guardians are encouraged to sit in the stands to watch and cheer for their player. The Y is actively recruiting volunteer support for this upcoming season.
“One of the special things about Miracle League sports is the parent network and support parents receive from each other,” said Casagrande. “Our parents rarely get a break, especially when their child may face additional daily challenges. Miracle League is a place where parents can sit back, relax, and let us help the athletes on the court. Parents can just be a spectator and cheer for their child.”
To register for Miracle League Basketball, please visit ymca-snoco.org/sports/. For more information about volunteering, please contact Gina Casagrande at gcasagrande@ymca-snoco.org.
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
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