FAQs

Find answers to some of our players’ and parents’ most common questions.  If you need more information or have additional questions, please contact us.  

What is the Miracle League of San Diego?

The Miracle League of San Diego is a non-profit organization that provides children with mental or physical disabilities an opportunity to play baseball as a team member in an organized league. Our league is a high-quality, safe and inclusive experience for our participants and their families.

My child has never played baseball or any other sport. Can he or she participate in this league?

Yes. Girls and boys between five and 18 years of age are eligible to participate in the Miracle League of San Diego regardless of his or her level of ability.

Where will the games be played and when?

All games are played at Engel Family Field, a Little Padres Park, in San Dieguito Park in Del Mar. The park is located at 1628 Lomas Santa Fe Drive at the northeast corner of Lomas Santa Fe Drive and Highland Drive. All league games start on the hour on Saturdays beginning at 10 a.m. and running through 3 p.m. or 4 p.m. Go to our league overview for more information or view our game schedule for our current season’s schedule. 

How are the games played?  How long is a game?

Each game lasts one hour, but participants are asked to arrive 30 minutes prior to the start of the game and check in with their coach. Games are non-competitive in nature, with every player batting, rounding the bases and scoring each inning. Volunteers called “Buddies” are assigned to each player to assist and provide encouragement throughout the game, both in and out of the dugout. The score is always tied at the end of the game. The focus is on participation and inclusion rather than on winning.

Do I need to bring anything?

No. On Opening Day every player will receive a team jersey and cap that is to be worn during games. Players are welcome to bring baseball gloves, but the league provides equipment for team use. Players can wear any shoes except cleats, which are not allowed on the field. A concession stand is located next to the field that serves hot dogs, chicken sandwiches, soda, water and a variety of other snacks.

Do I have to live near the field to be eligible to participate?

No.  The Miracle League of San Diego serves residents throughout San Diego County.

Are there team practices between games?

No.

What are Buddies and how do they help?

Buddies are volunteers who must register before the season and are assigned to a player on a one-to-one basis for the entire season. The Buddy is asked to protect the player from hard hit balls, assist the player in batting and rounding the bases, and to be a friend on and off the field.

What if we cannot attend one of our scheduled games?

Attendance is voluntary and there may be an occasion when you have to miss a game. Players and buddies are asked to notify their coach at least 24 hours prior to the game if unable to attend.

What is Engel Family Field?

Engel Family Field is the first ADA accessible ball field of its kind in Southern California. The field surface is a flat rubber mat that ensures that children with special needs can safely play ball. The bases are painted on the surface thereby providing no barriers for wheelchairs or walkers.

Is there parking at the field?

Parking is available at the field with an ADA accessible ramp located by the lot to the right of the park entrance.  Daily parking is available for $3 per car and annual County Parking passes are available for $40 (cash or check only) at the rangers’ station. It is more economical over two seasons to purchase a parking pass if you do not otherwise qualify for free parking. Passes are free for disabled and persons 62 and older.  Drivers with Disabled Person Placards will be admitted for parking with no charge.  If you don’t have a placard but qualify with a disabled player, please see a ranger to request a parking permit at no charge.

How can I volunteer?

Visit the Volunteer section of our website for detailed information on volunteer opportunities and registration. Volunteer positions include coaches, buddies, umpires, concessions and team parents. Volunteers also help with player registration, equipment and field maintenance.

Where can I register to participate?

Registration is available online through a link on our website.  The registration period for players, buddies and coaches starts about three months before the start of a season and ends about one month before the start of a season.

What can I expect after I register?

Once teams are formed and assignments are made, team participants will be contacted by their coaches with more detailed information, usually about two weeks before opening day.  Once complete, team schedules are available from your coach, on our website, or at the field during the season.