History

Miracle League of Palm Beach County > History

Miracle League of Palm Beach County History

The Miracle League of Palm Beach County History was co-founded in 2005 by Delray residents, Jeff & Julia Kadel. Parents of 3 active boys, Jeff has coached many of his son’s school and city teams, while Julia, a certified Health Coach, was always there cheering on her boys. One night they were watching a television broadcast featuring The Miracle League, a baseball league opens to all children regardless of mental or physical disabilities. It was then that the Kadels realized that they would use their experience and talents to bring this special baseball league to the children and families of their community.

After the success of that initial season, it was apparent to Julia & Jeff that the league needed to grow and serve all disabled children who wished to participate. With the support of the Palm Beach County Commission, community leaders, and generous donors, the plan to build their own barrier-free, the specialized field came to fruition. The Delray Parks and Recreation department was so inspired, they renovated all of the fields at Miller Park to include The Miracle League Field.

Related: Julia Kadel Story

Once their plan was presented to the Delray Beach City Commission, seed money was granted, community excitement grew and local fundraising began. In October 2007, The Miracle League of Delray Beach started its first season at the Bucky Dent Baseball School. There were 2 teams with 20+ players and 20+ volunteer “Buddies” (also known as Angels in the Field) who played baseball to a cheering crowd of families, friends, and community supporters.

Miracle League Featured on the HBO sports series "Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel"

In 2010, The Grand Opening of The Miracle League Field became home to 4 teams and bleachers filled with motivational cries from mothers, fathers, families, and friends. Once again, the need and the growth didn’t stop there. In 2015, a 10 Year Anniversary celebration was held and this fall season has increased to include 6 teams, 2 coaches per team, 75+ community volunteers, visiting civic groups, a committee of “Miracle Moms”, a Miracle League Cheerleading Squad, a volunteer-run concession stand and a new, fulltime Executive Director, Julia Kadel.

History

Miracle League of Palm Beach County History

Miracle League Featured on the HBO sports series "Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel"

The Grand Opening of The Miracle League

“Every Child Deserves to Play Baseball” and you can help!