MYO and the Mason Challenger League are  partnering with the City of Mason as well as the Mason Parks & Recreation Foundation to raise funds to build the Adaptive Ball Fields at Makino Park. These fields will only become a reality through the generosity of companies and community members like you. Consider making a lasting impact to the Challenger athletes through a sponsorship opportunity.

UPDATE ON FUNDRAISING:  We continue to make progress with the help of our community and local companies & businesses.  Thank you! 

E-Newsleter  

September 2023  masonchallenger_quarterly update_sept 2023.pdf

Updated 8/20/2023

The initial project estimate to build the two adaptive ballfields was $2.1 million. However, with the changes in the economy caused by the pandemic, the revised estimate was increased to $2.5 million. As of today,  the project from grants, matching funds from the City of Mason, as well as private grants and donations from local civic groups, the business community, and passionate citizens. We’re excited to round third and slide into home plate, with the remaining dollars needed for the project. These projects will help us pay for bleachers, two tiered benches for the dugouts and additional seating and furnishes.

On May 8, 2023, the City of Mason approved legislation authorizing contracts to begin construction of two adaptive ball fields at Makino Park. The Adaptive Ball Fields will mark phase II of this signature park, furthering the City of Mason’s mission of providing inclusive opportunities for children and adults of all ages.

A groundbreaking ceremony was held on July 24, where city leaders, Mason Challenger athletes and their families, state and county representatives, and members of the community joined together to move the first shovels of dirt marking a year of successful fundraising.

The fields will include surfaces allowing athletes with mobility issues to easily navigate, dugouts allowing all teammates to gather, accessible restrooms, and so much more. Not only will athletes be able to play uninhibited, but the fields will allow their parents to kick back and enjoy a game of baseball knowing that their children are safe. 

The fields are scheduled to be open for the Mason Challenger League’s spring 2024 season.

 Check out our Facebook link below to see pictures of the construction progress.

THE FIELD DESIGN:

1. Fields designed to remove barriers often found at typical baseball fields:
a. Two fields, constructed out of synthetic turf
b. No raised surfaces, lines and bases will be part of the turf design.
c. Fields require less maintenance
2. Large dugouts allowing all teammates to sit together.
a. Easily accessible and room for mobility devices
b. Two bench segments allowing athletes with mobility devices to sit by their friends
3. Seating so all family members can enjoy the game.
a. Covered seating
b. Unobstructed views of the field
4. An accessible location, Makino Park, for families and friends to experience.
a, Common Ground Playground
b. FC Mini Pitch soccer fields
c. Accessible parking, shelter area, and restrooms
The fields can also be available for other MYO programs like tee ball and the MLL and MYS 6U and 8U programs.
The Mason Challenger League and Mason Parks & Recreation Foundation are both non-profit 501c3 organizations. All funds raised benefit the Adaptive Ball Fields at Makino Park campaign and are eligible as a charitable donation.

Please contact Susan Murdock, Mason Challenger Board President, at [email protected] for the tax ID number for either organization.

Learn more about the Adaptive Fields Capital Campaign- https://masonchallengeradaptivefields.com/