Construction is wrapping up in January on an adaptive playground at the Langham Creek Family YMCA. A grand opening is planned for Miracle League’s opening day April 9.[/caption]

In late January, the Cleary Family Playground is expected to open on-site at the J.E. and L.E. Mabee Adaptive Sports Complex at the Langham Creek Family YMCA.

The adaptive playground is the latest addition to the complex, which hosts the Miracle League, a nonprofit that gives children the chance to play baseball regardless of circumstance and ability. The $2.4 million facility, which opened in March, includes adaptive baseball and soccer fields made from synthetic AstroTurf to make it easier and safer for children in wheelchairs and walkers.

Although the playground is opening this month, the official grand opening celebration will take place April 9, which is the opening day for the Miracle League’s spring season. The playground, which cost nearly $580,000, was paid for by community donations, said Matt Thompson, executive director of the Langham Creek Family YMCA.

The playground will allow children with special needs to play on the same playground as their siblings, Thompson said. It will feature equipment that can be modified with supports to enable children with disabilities to play and will also include sensory items and wheelchair ramps.

Thompson said Miracle League programs have significantly expanded in the nine months since the adaptive sports complex opened. The league averages 150 athletes per season for soccer, flag football, baseball, basketball and swimming.

“For us, the Miracle League has opened the door to do more and be more for our community,” he said.

YMCA officials are exploring adding other programs, such as Fit Girls Rock, an interactive program focused on developing physical fitness and confidence in girls with Down syndrome.

An additional multipurpose baseball field has been included in the complex’s master plan. However, a timetable has not been set for fundraising and construction.

“We are always in need of volunteer coaches to lead our teams and volunteer buddies to work directly with our athletes,” Thompson said.