BUDDY

Buddies are a vital part to the success of the Miracle League program.

Miracle League Volunteers are known as a "Buddy".   The buddy is there to protect the player from balls, assist the player in batting, catching and running the bases, and to be a friend on and off the field. Buddies receive a Miracle League hat for their participation and will wear a "Buddy" vest during the game.   

Once you participate, you will see that being a buddy allows you not only to make a difference in a player’s life, but also to create a positive awareness in yourself.

 

Buddies can be anyone from friends, parents, school students, athletes, individuals or group (12 years and older) who wishes to volunteer their time to give individuals with special needs the gift of baseball.

 

We ask that Buddies are available for the whole program (but volunteer spots are available for individual dates).

Goals for The Miracle League of Port Adelaide Buddies are simple:

 

  • Provide support and encouragement while ensuring the player’s safety.
  • Step in front of the player for protection, when a hard hitter is up to bat.
  • Always allow the player as much freedom as possible to play his/her game and position. Focus on abilities.
  • Run around the bases with the player or provide appropriate assistance (example, if player is in a wheelchair, push them around the bases).
  • Get to know the player and their family.
  • Demonstrate high morals and integrity on and off the field.
  • Have fun with the player and enjoy the game.


REQUIREMENTS: 

  • Buddies/all volunteers must be at least 12 years old and have parental consent. (Younger siblings can assist under supervision of parent)
  • IMPORTANT– All Volunteers  (14+) will need to provide a Working With Children Check (WWCC).  If you do not have a current WWCC, please ensure to apply ASAP as it will be required before starting on 1st Sept.  To apply: SA.GOV.AU - Apply for a screening check (www.sa.gov.au)
  • All Youth Volunteers must have a consent form signed by a parent/guardian.
  • All Buddies/Volunteers must attend an Induction/Information night, which will be held at Port Adelaide Baseball Club prior to season starting (date/time tbc)


COACH

Coaches take more of a supervision and structure role. They are there to help with sign ins, maintaining smooth flow of the game, ensuring proper equipment is used, matching buddies to athletes, and providing support. Coaches often will fill in as a buddy as needed.



OTHER VOLUNTEER ROLES

Other roles that are equally as important and may sometimes need to be filled by various volunteers include helping with training stations, helping with sign-in station, audio announcer, canteen assistant and set up/pack up of games.   You can also volunteer as a ONE-TIME Volunteers for those that cannot come on a regular basis, but still would like to participate.


The expectation of ALL Volunteer roles is first and foremost enthusiasm and encouragement for our athletes. A crowd full of cheering and applause can make just as much of an impact as does playing the game itself.

If you are interested in volunteering in any of the roles above, please speak to Miracle LEague Directors- Lyndelle connor or natasha voice.
 email:  miracleleauguePA@portmagpies.com



CLICK HERE TO REGISTER TO VOLUNTEER FOR MAY PROGRAM