Sports complex to open for special needs kids

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- The term "field of dreams" has become a cliche', but on a large expanse of land behind the Langham Creek YMCA, it's appropriate.

For some time, behind a temporary baseball field, a sports complex has been under construction, one with a purpose and a heart for special needs kids.

It's an adaptive sports facility, one in which kids with limitations can experience baseball, football, soccer and more.

The facilities and the games are 'adaptive', meaning they fit the needs of special needs players.

It's a big deal, in price and purpose. It's will be the only complex of its kind in this part of the state. The closest one is said to be in Round Rock, near Austin.

The $2.4 million required for the special-surface baseball field and pavillion was raised in record time, by 3 board members at the Langham Creek YMCA: Rodney Finke, Allan Wallace, and Mack Hoehner.

"Who could say no to something like this," said Hoehner. He was right.

The complex will open Saturday. The Miracle League teams which had been playing on the temporay field will move to the new accomodations. What began as 20 players has gown to more than a hundred. It's expected the new field will be booked quickly.

For young Reece Simmons, who navigates on a specially built walker, it's a dream come true. "I want to be a catcher," he said.

Asked how he rates his new homefield, "It's a 5 million," he shouted.