We understand you may have lots of questions. We hope this helps. If you have further questions, please feel free to email Sharon at sferro@miracleleagueofjoliet.com.
The Miracle League of Joliet Frequently Asked Questions
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What day and what times are games played?
Miracle League games are played on Saturdays during our 6 week season (Spring and Fall). Each team will play one game each Saturday, on a rotating schedule. Games last about 1 hour, with 15 minutes in between games. Game times will begin no earlier than 8:45am. Some seasons have more teams than others depending on registration numbers. This changes the number of games, but typically our final game for the day will begin no later than 3:40pm.
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When does the season begin?
The Spring Season usually begins on the 2nd Saturday in May and continues every Saturday, for six weeks. Please be sure to save the date for our Preseason Meeting the Saturday before opening day. This meeting is league wide and will cover important details regarding the season. Players will also get their jerseys, hats and meet their coaches. Our Fall season begins in early September and continues every Saturday for six weeks.
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When will the Schedule be available?
Our schedule is typically released about a week after registration closes. We typically don’t know how many teams we will have until we close registration and get final numbers. Therefore, we don’t release the schedule until we have firm numbers to avoid any confusion.
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Where are Miracle League games played? Where do we park?
We play our games at 120 E. Clinton Street, Joliet 60432. Our field is in the Northeast Corner of Silver Cross Field. There are handicapped parking spots along Clinton Street, directly in front of the field. These spots are reserved for vehicles with handicapped parking tags, ONLY. Additional parking spots are available across Clinton Street in two lots adjacent to the field. Parking Lot #1 is located northeast of the field (it is surrounded by wrought iron fencing). Parking Lot #2 is about a half a block northwest of the field, close to the Joliet Fire Station. There are also additional parking spots on Clinton Street east of the field, which are not designated as handicapped only.
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How do we know if games are cancelled or rained out? Do we make up rained out games?
For rain outs or game cancellations we use a website called www.rainedout.com. By subscribing to this site (you will be sent instructions before the season begins), you will be notified via text or email when we have to cancel games. We also update our Facebook page regularly for weather issues or game changes. Rain outs are only rescheduled if an entire day of games is rained out.
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How old does my player have to be to play for the Miracle League of Joliet?
Players must be at least 4 years old. The maximum age for new players is 19.
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Do teams practice?
Our standard Miracle League teams (2-inning Games-everybody bats, everybody runs/rolls, everybody scores) do NOT practice. Players are allowed to play/practice on the field, before their game begins, during the time between games.
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Does my player need baseball gear (baseball pants, cleats, glove, bat etc.) to play?
We tell players to wear whatever is comfortable for them, so if that is baseball pants then go right ahead, but shorts work just fine. We do not allow players to wear cleats on our rubberized turf field, please wear comfortable tennis shoes. We provide bats for each game, but players are welcome to being their own. Some players use a glove and many players do not. Please feel free to do what is most comfortable for your player.
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Can I buy Miracle League t-shirts or clothing?
The Miracle League of Joliet operates a spirit wear/apparel store at the field each game day. We have a variety of items so be sure to stop by and check it out. We also host a preseason online sale at the beginning of the season. We offer discounts at this sale. Check your email for information about the preseason sale.
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Does the Miracle League of Joliet have a Concession Stand?
YES! We sell lots of goodies, including hot dogs, soda, coffee/hot chocolate on cold days, donuts, chips, candy, and a range healthy options. Our concession stand is located West of the field in the same building as our Restrooms.
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What is a “Buddy”? What are “Buddy” Responsibilities?
Each player in the Miracle League is assigned a volunteer “Buddy.” Our buddies assist players on the field, helping them bat, field, and keep them in the game. If your child needs help getting around the bases in a wheel chair or assistance walking/running, our buddies are there to help. Please Note: Instructional Players are required to play independently, without a Buddy. Coaches are allowed to instruct players verbally but may not physically assist players.
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Will my player have the same Buddy each game? Or all season? What about Spring and Fall?
We aim to pair our players with the same buddy for the entire season. There are instances, however, where this doesn’t always work out, in which case we have “on call” buddies usually standing by to help. We also try to pair players and buddies together for both Spring and Fall, if desired, however we don’t always get the same volunteers each season. If there is a particular buddy you would like, you may request him/her and we will do our best to fulfill your request. Parents and siblings can be buddies if you prefer.
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How can I learn to volunteer for the league?
Our Buddies are required to attend a brief training prior to the start of their first game on Opening Day. Those who are unable to attend, will be given instruction by our Buddy Coordinator or trained volunteer. Each team also has a team mom who will assist buddies in helping their player.
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Can my child play one season, drop a year and then come back?
Players can play as many or as few seasons as their schedule allows. Of course, we want you to play EVERY season but we understand that lives are busy. We welcome you back anytime!
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Who do I contact if I have questions?
The best contact is Sharon Ferro, at sferro@miracleleagueofjoliet.com.