ORLANDO, Fla. – In a heartwarming turn of events, the Central Florida Miracle League, a baseball league designed for players with special needs, is gearing up for an exciting new season. This comes after the local community banded together to raise over $100,000, ensuring the renovation of their well-worn field and the continuation of this beloved program.

For nearly two decades, the league has been a staple at Trotter’s Park. However, earlier this year, the condition of the field had deteriorated to a point where it was deemed unsuitable for play, casting doubt on the league’s future.

Mike Houlihan, the league’s president, shared that the journey to gather the necessary funds was an emotional rollercoaster for everyone involved.

“Seeing this field brings tears to my eyes,” Houlihan expressed. “Reflecting on where we started and what it took to reach this point is truly overwhelming.”

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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.”