The Georgia State softball team is always determined to make community service one of their top priorities as they volunteered with the Miracle League at Hunter Park in Douglasville, Ga. on Sept. 17.
The Miracle League is a baseball association dedicated to physically challenged children and youth. Ranging from ages 3-25, the Miracle League’s only requirements are to participate, smile and enjoy the game.
The Panthers’ very own Mallory Koepke brought this community service project to Georgia State. While working at a baseball tournament over the summer, Koepke met Mieko Bercich who has been the Athletic Director for the city of Douglasville Parks and Recreation for six years. Bercich also serves as the Director of the Miracle League.
“I met him [Bercich], and he asked me if I knew anyone who would be able to volunteer for the Miracle League,” Koepke said. “Instantly I was like this is perfect. We have a team of 24, so we brought everyone with us.”
Choosing the theme ‘crazy socks’, the softball team worked out all the logistics with Bercich and head coach Roger Kincaid to participate as volunteers.
When the Miracle League players arrived, they were split into two groups. After dividing into teams each softball player was assigned a buddy. The designated Panther helped her buddy run the bases, hit the ball, play their respective positions as well as assisted in any other way they could.
Koepke remembers her buddy’s baseball qualities.
“My buddy was a power hitter,” Koepke said laughing. “So he didn’t need any help hitting. I talked to him about defense and about different things like how long he had been playing baseball.”
Kincaid admired the way his team connected with the Miracle League players as he hopes to make this community service project a regular event for his team.
“It was a great experience for our kids,” Kincaid said. “What touched me the most was seeing our kids interact with the players. Seeing the patience, the kindness and also standing back and watching the look on those parents’ faces. I’m so happy we participated, and I’d do it 100 more times.”
Several individuals that come in contact with the Miracle League leave with a new insight on life. Bercich serves as a living testimony for this.
“The Miracle League Program has taught me to enjoy life, and there are no limitations,” Bercich said. “I look at these kids as heroes. If I have a bad day or down on my luck, I always look to my players for inspiration.”
The Georgia State softball program and the Miracle League plan to have a lasting relationship. Bercich has spoken with Kincaid and intends to make a single Sunday game for the Panthers.
Volunteers are always welcomed to help the Miracle League remain a success. Individuals or groups interested in volunteering can email Bercich at bercichm@douglasvillega.gov or reach him by phone at 678-449-3072.