Dream League is a baseball league for children ages 3 and up with special needs in Western Oklahoma. They are excited to partner with Kids, Inc. to continue providing this opportunity for all children with special needs. Each Saturday during the season, the Dream League kids are partnered with a group from the surrounding communities such as high school baseball/softball teams, firefighters, police officers, etc. The first week’s game was partnered by softball teams from Sayre and Canute.The second set of games were partnered with FCCLA members, including Miss Elk City’s Teen.
Ashley Meadows is the organizer and says Dream League Baseball started almost 15 years ago with about 15 kids.
“We wanted to give the kids in our community a safe place for them to be able to play and feel included. We are now up to almost 45 individuals from all over Western Oklahoma who come out to play! Dream League not only gives these individuals a place to go and play and have fun, but also means so much to the groups that come out to be our volunteers! We have groups that have been coming out for years because they love it too! Dream League games are the best way to start your Saturday!”
It is a short season (April 12 - May 24th) but the impact is huge. When parents were asked if they had a story to share, Micah White said, “I'd love to share our story about how dream league impacted our family! The program has been a game-changer for our family, providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for our kids to play and grow. The volunteers and families are truly what make it special. I love how they support the players, from cheering them on to providing support whenever possible. It's amazing to see the positive impact it's had on our community!”
Another parent, Ashley Moore said “Only thing I have to say is I find it wonderful and heartwarming to see the absolute JOY on my daughter’s face to have people root and cheer her on! How incredible it is as a mother to watch your daughter have that moment. It’s beautiful. The entire program is amazing and these kids NEED that kind of support and encouragement.”
It is free to participants. Team jerseys, gloves, bats, you name it, are all supplied. If you have a child with any physical or cognitive disability that would require some assistance or modifications to be able to play or participate, Dream League Baseball may be the perfect fit. Kids can be signed up through Kids, Inc. in Elk City 580-3744332. Sign ups for this season are still available although they can’t guarantee a jersey. Fall season is usually September- October. Check out their facebook group page at Dream League Baseball of Elk City.
