CURVE, Pa. – The Altoona Curve, Double-A affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates, will be expanding their relationship with the Miracle League of Blair County, beginning this summer.
This year, Curve players, staff and mascots will be doing more appearances with the Miracle League of Blair County than any previous year, beginning with the league’s Opening Day on Saturday, May 6.
“The Miracle League is a real gift to our community,” said Tobi Rispoli, Miracle League of Blair County volunteer and board member.” The Curve have always been supportive, including contributions, baseball camps and a presence throughout the year. This year will prove to be even more exciting for the kids and their families.”
The Miracle League of Blair County is a charitable organization that provides children and youth with mental and/or physical challenges an opportunity to play baseball as a team member in an organized league, giving them an opportunity to suit up in a uniform, step up to the plate and enjoy the game of baseball in the purest form.
“Working with the Miracle League of Blair County has been truly amazing,” said Curve Director of Community Relations Emily Rosencrants. “The Miracle League of Blair County has always had a great relationship the Curve and we are excited to strengthen the partnership even more this year.”
Curve mascots will be on hand this Saturday to hang out with the Miracle League players between games.
On Saturday, June 10, Curve players will join the Miracle League Curve team for their game against the Orioles. On Saturday, June 24, Curve players will be back for the Pirates Fantasy Camp clinic with all of the Miracle League players.
“Having the Curve players involved is always great, and this year the Pirates are bringing back the Fantasy Camp, which is always one of the best days of the year,” said Rosencrants. “We are looking forward to the 2017 partnership and for the years to come.”
The Curve will also continue their postgame ball launch after weekend home games, where fans can win great prizes with all proceeds benefiting the Miracle League of Blair County.
“We certainly hope that an increased Curve presence will generate more exposure of the Miracle League so the organization can encourage more families, players and volunteers to sign up for a Miracle League team,” said Rispoli. “The Miracle League is certainly our other ‘Hometown Team!'”
The Miracle League removes the physical barriers that keep children with mental and physical disabilities off the baseball field and lets them experience the joy of America’s favorite pastime. Miracle League teams play on a custom-designed, rubberized turf field that accommodates wheelchairs and other assertive devices while helping to prevent injuries.
For more information on the Miracle League of Blair County, visit PAMiracleLeague.com.
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This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.