Port Jefferson Students Become BUDDYs at Miracle League Baseball Game

On Oct. 13, coaches and student athletes from Port Jefferson High School participated in the Miracle League baseball game, an organization whose mission is to run baseball programs for people of all ages with disabilities.

Students volunteered their time as BUDDY (Because Unbelievable Dedication Deserves YOU) helpers protecting players from balls and assisting them in batting and running the bases, according to a statement from the school.

"After volunteering for the past two years, many students showed an earnest desire to make this an annual trip," said junior varsity girls volleyball coach Dinarae Camarda. "This was an extremely positive experience and we look forward to a continued involvement with this extraordinary program."

The program helps not only the players with special needs but the students who come out to volunteer, according to Therese Blanton, a Miracle League board member and mother of League player Luke Blanton.

"The League is a great thing because it gives children with special needs a chance to play in an accepting and nonjudgmental environment,” Blanton said. "Not only is this an important outlet for the players, but it also gives the BUDDY volunteers a chance to see the struggles of kids with disabilities on a moment-by-moment basis. They come away more tolerant, accepting and aware of the fact that these are kids just like them."