A Miracle League players heads to home after a great hit on opening day for the Miracle League of Alexandria. Photo by Janet Barnett/Gazette Packet
The Miracle League of Alexandria opened its 2025 season as special needs youth from across the region took to the Kelley Cares Miracle Field April 23 at the Nannie J. Lee Recreation Center.
Volunteers from Saint Stephen’s & St. Agnes served as “Angels in the Outfield,” joining the Miracle League players and assisting them on the field. Opening day for the adult players was held on April 12.
“Today is opening day for our kids ages 5 and up,” said Mac Slover, board president of the Miracle League of Alexandria. “Players received their jerseys and hats as part of our partnership with the Washington Nationals Team Up Program.”
Joining in the festivities were participants in the Nannie J. Lee afterschool program.
Nannie J. Lee after school program cheerleaders cheer for the Miracle League players April 23 on opening day.
“The Nannie J. Lee afterschool program was here to cheer the players on,” Slover said. “A special thanks to Miss Jackie [Person] and her staff. The therapeutic rec staff are so supportive of our Miracle League players as well as all the parents.”
The Miracle League of Alexandria started in the spring of 2011 and is now in its 14th year. The organization provides opportunities for children and adults with any physical or cognitive disabilities that cause them to be excluded from conventional baseball leagues. The league uses the volunteer buddy system that pairs each player with an able-bodied peer to help the athletes.
Slover, who retired from the Department of Parks and Recreation in 2018, was a driving force behind establishing the Miracle League of Alexandria. Along with Bill Rivers, the two helped raise awareness and funds to build the Kelley Cares Miracle Field, a rubberized field that allows those with special needs to safely play baseball. Both Slover and Rivers have been honored as Living Legends of Alexandria for their efforts in bringing the Miracle League and Miracle Field to Alexandria.
The Miracle League is a national program founded in 2000 in Atlanta and has grown to over 300 teams from the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico.
“We are very thankful for our many wonderful players, parents and Angels in the Outfield Buddies who have participated with us through the years,” Slover said.
For more information or the 2025 season schedule, visit www.miracleleagueofalexandria.com.