Construction on the Miracle League of West Mobile: Schmidt Family Park is complete, thanks to our wonderful donors. The vision of a few became the work of many as we united to build this ball field and playground for children with special needs.

As the first Miracle League site in Mobile County, Schmidt Family Park was constructed in accordance with the standards of The Miracle League, which affiliates with 240 similar parks across the United States and Canada. These standards will allow children and adults with mental and physical disabilities to experience the joy of America’s favorite pastime. It’s more than just a game. The Miracle League is about making new friends, building self-esteem and being treated just like other athletes.

What’s so special about this park?

The baseball field features a synthetic rubberized turf that accommodates wheelchairs and other assistive devices while helping to prevent injuries. The field has double-wide lanes, allowing the players more space as they round the bases. The playground includes inclusive swings, slides, structures and fitness equipment, wheelchair ramps, and even a zip line.

Work on The Miracle League of West Mobile: Schmidt Family Park has been done by Speaks and Associates Consulting Engineers, Inc., TAG/The Architect Group, and

Youngblood-Barrett Construction.

Several community organizations stepped up to the plate. The Schmidt-Barton Family Fund donated $1 million. The Alabama Pecan Development Company, Inc., donated more than 24 acres to the project and South Alabama Utilities donated more than 4 acres. The Mobile County Commission paved the road leading into the park. And Mobile County Public Schools has overseen the construction, fundraising, financing, and marketing of the park.

The road leading into the park is lovingly named in memory of Mikell Speaks, whose grandson Sam was an inspiration for this field.

We are not done yet. Our goal is to add a regulation baseball field and softball field. Our hope is to one day build a school on the site. To do that, we need your help. Donations are being accepted at mcpss.com/miracleleague. For more information, scan the QR code below. We appreciate your continued support.

-The Board of Directors

Miracle League of West Mobile: Schmidt Family Park