Cullman Parks, Recreation, and Sports Tourism Announces Grand Re-Opening of the Field of Miracles with State-of-the-Art Astroturf

Jordan Meggs • April 2, 2024

CULLMAN, AL – Cullman Parks, Recreation, and Sports Tourism (CPRST) is thrilled to announce the grand re-opening of the Field of Miracles, now featuring a cutting-edge astroturf surface, marking a significant milestone as the first turf baseball and softball field across all Cullman Parks Recreation and Sports Tourism facilities. This multi-use sports complex, renowned for its inclusivity and ability to provide athletes of all abilities with a competitive and fun environment, has undergone a transformative resurfacing project to enhance the experience for Miracle League Baseball athletes and all users.


The Field of Miracles, a pioneering complex in the country to integrate a miracle field with regular-use softball fields within the same park, has been a cornerstone of the community since its inception. The original field was constructed through the collective efforts of over 300 individuals and businesses, embodying the spirit of unity and generosity that defines Cullman. The recent resurfacing project, fully funded by the past year's fundraising efforts led by the Cullman Parks and Recreation Foundation, signifies a renewed commitment to creating a safer and more inclusive park experience.


The grand re-opening event was further enlivened by the participation of the Wallace State Baseball Team and Cullman High School baseball team, who played alongside Miracle League athletes, adding to the excitement and joy of the occasion. Additionally, the Alabama Baseball Coaches Association, represented by Barry Dean, presented a check for an additional $2,000 to the CPRST Miracle League, underscoring the widespread support for this invaluable community asset.


Miracle League player, Whitley Miller (pictured below) shared running the bases is her favorite thing about Miracle League Baseball. For Whitley and other players, running the bases is now much safer with the new turf installed, providing a non-slick surface while also remaining soft on contact.


Mayor Woody Jacobs reflected on the project's history, stating, "The Field of Miracles stands as a testament to what we can achieve when we come together as a community. From its initial construction to today's unveiling of the new astroturf surface, this project showcases the best of Cullman - our unity, generosity, and unwavering commitment to inclusivity. We are proud to continue nurturing this space where dreams are realized, and barriers are overcome."


Trent Lowry, Foundation Board Chairman, expressed his gratitude and vision for the future, saying, "The resurfacing of the Field of Miracles with astroturf is more than just an upgrade; it's a reaffirmation of our dedication to providing an exceptional and inclusive sporting experience for all. This project would not have been possible without the incredible support of our community, and we are excited to see the joy and development it brings to our athletes of all abilities."


Jimmy Dale Burgess, the PA announcer for the Miracle League, shared his insights on the impact of the league, "The joy and excitement that the Miracle League brings to our players are truly heartwarming. With the new astroturf surface, we're not just enhancing the safety and playability of the field; we're elevating the entire experience for these incredible athletes. It's a privilege to be part of something that brings so much happiness and a sense of achievement to our players.


"The Field of Miracles is now open and ready to welcome athletes and spectators alike, continuing its legacy as a beacon of inclusivity, sportsmanship, and community spirit in Cullman.


For more information on the Field of Miracles and the Miracle League, please visit the Cullman Parks, Recreation, and Sports Tourism website or contact the CPRST office.

A little girl wearing a red shirt that says angels
A group of people are standing on a baseball field with their hands in the air.
A group of people are standing next to each other on a track.
Two men are standing on a baseball field talking into microphones.
A man in a wheelchair is playing baseball with a group of people behind a chain link fence.

Youth Baseball, Softball, and T-Ball Registration Now Open at Cullman Parks & Rec

By Jordan Meggs • January 13, 2025
Spring is just around the corner, and that means it's time to sign up your young athletes for baseball, softball, and t-ball with Cullman Parks, Recreation, and Sports Tourism. Whether your child is a seasoned player or stepping onto the diamond for the first time, our youth sports programs offer a fantastic opportunity for children ages 3-12 to learn, grow, and have fun. Registration for the 2024 spring season is currently open and will continue through February 13th. Don't delay in securing your child's spot, as our programs consistently draw enthusiastic participation from throughout the Cullman community. Program Overview Our comprehensive youth baseball and softball programs are designed to accommodate children at various skill and age levels. For our youngest athletes (starting at age 3), t-ball provides the perfect introduction to baseball fundamentals. As children progress through the age groups up to 12 years old, they'll develop their skills, understanding of the game, and teamwork abilities. Important Dates to Remember Registration Period: Now through February 13, 2024 Player Evaluations: Week of February 17 (specific dates vary by age group) Practice Start Date: First week of March Season Opening: Games begin in April Player Evaluations The week of February 17 marks an important milestone in our season preparation, as we'll conduct player evaluations. These assessments help us create balanced teams and ensure every child is placed in an appropriate skill level group. Your child's specific evaluation date will depend on their age group, and detailed information will be provided upon registration. What to Expect Once teams are formed, practices will commence in the first week of March. This gives our young athletes plenty of time to build team chemistry, work on fundamental skills, and prepare for the excitement of the regular season. Games will begin in April, running through the spring months. Our dedicated coaches focus on: Teaching proper baseball/softball fundamentals Developing good sportsmanship Building confidence and self-esteem Creating a positive, encouraging environment Fostering a love for the game Benefits of Youth Baseball and Softball Participating in organized baseball and softball helps children develop not just athletic skills, but also important life skills. Players learn the value of teamwork, develop leadership abilities, and build confidence through achievement. The physical benefits include improved hand-eye coordination, overall fitness, and motor skills development. Get Ready for the Season As you prepare for registration, make sure you have: Proof of your child's age Current contact information Any relevant medical information Appropriate clothing and equipment (detailed lists will be provided) Don't miss out on this opportunity to be part of Cullman's vibrant youth sports community. Register your child today and help them create lasting memories, develop valuable skills, and experience the joy of America's favorite pastime. For more information about registration, equipment requirements, or any other questions, please contact Cullman Parks, Recreation, and Sports Tourism directly. We look forward to another exciting season of youth baseball, softball, and t-ball in Cullman!
A man in a wheelchair is playing baseball with a group of people behind a chain link fence.

Celebrating Our Incredible CPRST Volunteers

By Jamie Kirk • November 12, 2024
At Cullman Parks, Recreation, and Sports Tourism, we are beyond grateful for the dedicated volunteers who bring our events to life. To all of our volunteers, thank you for your remarkable contributions. Together, we are building a vibrant community that values the arts, inclusivity, and youth development. Your support makes all the difference! Shining a Spotlight on our Amazing Community Theatre Members Their passion for the arts has enriched our special events and created unforgettable experiences for everyone involved. Whether they are performing on stage, crafting immersive experiences, or utilizing their creative talents behind the scenes, these volunteers add an extraordinary touch to our community. Their unwavering commitment to the arts inspires us all, and we cannot thank them enough for their hard work and dedication. A Heartfelt Thanks to Wallace State Community College We also want to express our gratitude to our wonderful partners at Wallace State Community College . The support we receive from their students and staff is nothing short of incredible. They consistently go above and beyond to ensure our special events run smoothly. From assisting with event logistics to engaging with attendees, Wallace State’s involvement is crucial to our success. Their enthusiasm and energy help create unforgettable experiences for everyone who participates. Thank you, Wallace State, for your continued partnership—we look forward to many more fantastic events together! Ballet South: Elevating Our Events with Grace We are proud to collaborate with Ballet South, whose artistry and grace have significantly enhanced our special events. Their performances bring a touch of elegance and cultural enrichment to our community, captivating attendees and leaving a lasting impression. Ballet South’s dedication to the arts helps us create a vibrant atmosphere that exceeds expectations. Whether performing on stage or supporting behind the scenes, they are an invaluable part of our success. Thank you, Ballet South, for sharing your talent and passion with us! Honoring the Pilot Club’s Dedication We are incredibly thankful for the unwavering support of the Pilot Club . Their members have played a vital role in the success of our Archery Tournament and Therapeutic Recreation programs. Their dedication to service and willingness to help whenever needed exemplify true community spirit. The Pilot Club’s contributions ensure that participants of all abilities can enjoy our events in an inclusive and welcoming environment. Thank you, Pilot Club, for your commitment to our mission—you truly make a difference! A Big Shout-Out to Our Amazing Volunteer Coaches Finally, we want to recognize our incredible volunteer coaches who make our youth sports programs thrive. These dedicated individuals invest their time and energy to mentor young athletes, imparting valuable life skills that extend far beyond the game. The impact of our volunteer coaches is profound—they not only teach sports but also foster confidence, leadership, and teamwork in the youth they coach. We cannot thank you enough for your dedication to shaping the future of our community. Your efforts are creating lasting change!
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