Inclusive Dream League baseball season a hit with special needs players and their buddies

BARRS MILLS – In a small unincorporated Sugarcreek Township community established in 1873, a baseball league comes together each summer for the special needs community to enjoy America’s favorite pastime: baseball.

Dream League is open to all with special needs, mostly from around Tuscarawas County, with the objective of giving children and adults the opportunity to hit, catch, throw, and circle the base path of a real baseball diamond.

Two people occupy each field position, except for the pitcher and catcher, as caregivers known as buddies help the players. The league's first game of the season was held on July 31, with about 13 buddies on hand. The league plays three games each summer on a field behind the Barrs Mills Church of God.

According to a new release from the church, games are set up for everyone to achieve, as no score or outs are recorded. "Every runner will get to experience the joy of moving around the bases and touching home plate as the game progresses,” the release stated.

“Anytime a program can uplift, validate, encourage, and love people it is a success," said Lynne Snyder, administrative assistant and spokesperson for the church. "Our goal is to always show the love of Jesus and to be used by Him to touch others.”

Marlin Miller, of Paint Township in Holmes County, was there with his wife, Lisa, and their three children Adelaide, 14, Bennett, 11, and Miles, 6, who have Down Syndrome. The family was eager to kick off the season. “It’s the one thing all the children look forward to all year, and actually is the only chance they get to play,” Marlin said.

Located at 4677 SR 93, NW, the facility is fully handicap accessible with ample parking, snack stand, playground and even a hitching post – all courtesy of the church.

The field was constructed in 2005 and is used for games played by the Amish community in addition to various special events throughout the year. Occasionally, it is also used for youth teams for practice when available.

Anyone interested in playing with the Dream League is encouraged to register. For more information, call 330-852-2508 or email office@barrsmillchurch.org .

T-R staff photographer Andrew Dolph can be reached by phone at 330-289-6072, or by email at adolph3@gannett.com . You can also find him on Instagram @dolphphoto .

This article originally appeared on The Times-Reporter: Inclusive Dream League baseball season a hit with special needs players and their buddies