by Shannon Glenney
In the heart of East Texas, a new chapter in inclusive sports unfolded with hundreds attending the Grand Opening of the Miracle League of Tyler. This local initiative, dedicated to empowering individuals with physical and mental challenges through baseball, marked a significant milestone for the community. The league’s arrival not only provided a safe space for play but also fostered friendships, confidence, and joy among players and families who might otherwise be sidelined. As the first season wrapped up in the fall, the impact was already evident, transforming lives one inning at a time!
The Miracle League traces its roots back to 2000, when the first adaptive baseball program was established in Conyers, Georgia with the simple yet profound mission: “Every Child Deserves a Chance to Play Baseball.” The leagues emphasize participation over competition, ensuring every player gets to bat, run the bases, and score—regardless of ability. Volunteers, known as “buddies,” assist players on the field, while specialized equipment and surfaces accommodate wheelchairs, walkers, and other needs.
In Tyler, the push for a local Miracle League began several years ago, driven by passionate advocates who recognized the need for accessible recreation in East Texas. The effort gained momentum through a partnership between the Miracle League of Tyler and the City of Tyler. The collaboration aimed to construct an all-inclusive ballfield at Faulkner Park. The project included contributions from the community supplemented by the city’s Half-Cent Sales Tax fund. Construction kicked off in the fall of 2024, with SCI Construction handling the build. The result was a state-of-the-art complex featuring a rubberized playing surface for safer mobility, accessible bleachers, a concession stand, and restrooms designed for all users. This facility was engineered to eliminate barriers, allowing players with diverse abilities to engage fully in the game.
The field holds special meaning as it was dedicated in honor of Jack Bryans, a young baseball player from Tyler who inspired his family, friends, and the community to champion this cause, ensuring his legacy lives on through every game played there. Casey Bryans, President of the Miracle League of Tyler and father of Jack, has been instrumental in bringing the vision to Tyler alongside the original board members, Shannon Glenney, Kevan Kirksey, Jason Trimble and Kyle Rutherford. The board members all agree that it’s so much more than baseball. It’s giving these players and families the opportunity to make friends, to play a sport and to experience the joy of being championed.
The Grand Opening on June 15, 2025, was a festive affair held at the newly completed field in Faulkner Park, and drew hundreds of people ranging from families, volunteers, city officials, and supporters from across the region. It featured a player parade led by a drumline marching the players onto the field, followed by an exhibition game. Tyler Mayor Don Warren threw the ceremonial first pitch and was joined on the field by board members, State Senator Bryan Hughes and State Representative Cole Hefner. Attendees witnessed heartfelt moments, such as young players like Emma Sparrow stepping up to bat. Sparrow shared her mix of excitement and nerves: “I feel excited to make new friends… I’m a little nervous, and I don’t want to let them down.” She definitely delivered, hitting the ball and driving in a run, her smile lighting up the field. The Exhibition Game set the tone for what would become a beacon of community spirit, with registration opening that month for the inaugural season.
Fall 2025 brought the League’s first official games, starting on September 14 at Faulkner Park. Six teams took the field that Saturday, supported by over 100 volunteers from Grace Cougar Athletics serving as buddies for Opening Day. Each week of the season a different group supplied the Volunteer Buddies, concession support and fans. Southside Bank, Christus Health, Tyler Junior College Athletics, UT Tyler Patriots, Grace Community Church, Genesis Group, Terracon, Roseman Wealth, Texas Bank and Trust, Green Acres Baptist Church and the City of Tyler leadership provided over 600 volunteers in just 8 weeks of playing! The format was simple yet magical: Every player bats, every hit is a success, and everyone scores. Coaches Jason Reed and John Greenslade played a pivotal role, ensuring each player felt like a star. The rubber surface proved invaluable, allowing wheelchair users to navigate bases smoothly. Additional fun included face painting and meet-and-greets with the League’s mascot, Homer. Board member Shannon Glenney captured the essence: “It’s pretty amazing to watch these kids with pure joy on their faces as they hit the ball and go around the bases.” Games were free for participants, removing financial barriers and encouraging widespread involvement.
The Miracle League of Tyler also debuted an Adult League on Tuesday evenings which was a Grand Slam!! Players from Breckenridge Village, Achieving Dreams and more came out to packed stands to play ball! The League has already seen ripple effects beyond the diamond. Parents, siblings and friends have packed the stands at every single game. And the volunteers are begging to serve again! As one volunteer put it, this is the most fun I have ever had serving.
Looking ahead, the Miracle League of Tyler plans to have regular spring and fall seasons aiming to add more adult divisions, special events, and partnerships for year-round activities. Fundraising continues to maintain the no-cost model, and volunteers are always welcomed as buddies and sponsors. As the 2026 season approaches, the league stands as a testament to what collaboration can achieve and reminds us of sport’s unifying power. From its grand opening pomp to the cheers of the first season, The Miracle League of Tyler has created miracles on and off the field, proving that with opportunity, every player can shine.