CITY AND SCHOOL TEAM UP FOR MIRACLE LEAGUE FUNDRAISER AT FOOTBALL GAME
ANKENY, Iowa (Sept. 7, 2012) - On Friday, September 14, the Ankeny Hawks will play the SE Polk Rams at 7 p.m., in a rivalry football game titled "Miracle League Night at Ankeny Stadium." The Ankeny Miracle League (http://www.ankenymiracleleague.com) is working to construct a "Miracle Field," or a baseball field and playground designed and built specifically for children with disabilities. To assist the Ankeny Miracle League in raising funds for this worthy project, the AHS Athletic Department will donate $1 from every ticket sold to this great game between rivals SE Polk, and the Ankeny Hawks.
“Our support of the Ankeny Miracle League and the City on this project is without question, as it’s a valuable and important step in the development of our young people,” said Ankeny Athletic and Activities Director Kevin Biggs. “We have the type of students and families in Ankeny who want to get involved in their community, especially for a cause that is much more important than winning games or contests. We look forward to being involved in the future of this project, not only in fund-raising, but providing volunteers and developing programs that further develop friendships between Miracle League children and other Ankeny student-athletes.“
Every person who purchases a ticket to the game is essentially donating $1 directly to the Ankeny Miracle League. In addition, Miracle League volunteers will be on-hand with renderings of the new field and special commemorative t-shirts for sale, along with a "pass-the-bucket" for any further donations at halftime. The AHS Athletic Department goal for the night is to raise more than $8,000 for the Miracle League.
Nearly 800 children have been diagnosed with some type of special need in the Ankeny district and more than 3,500 live in central Iowa. The future Miracle League Field and All-Inclusive Playground will be located in Hawkeye Park and provide children with special needs and their families including: a non-competitive co-ed baseball league for children with special needs; a network of Buddies to teach, assist and protect players during play, a 100 percent accessible playground, a playground that focuses on maximum play value and an experience catering to kids with physical, cognitive and sensory disabilities.
“Ankeny has already been incredibly generous with their time and dollars,” said Todd Redenius, director of parks and recreation and member of the Miracle League Steering Committee. “This effort is a great way for Ankeny citizens and business owners to once again demonstrate their Ankeny pride.”
Bring your school spirit and your check books on September 14 as the Hawks battle the Rams in a great evening for all, but especially for the Miracle League.
The All-Inclusive Playground and Miracle League of Ankeny project is a joint collaboration between the City of Ankeny and the Ankeny Kiwanis Club. For more information, go to www.ankenymiracleleague.com.