City celebrates reopening of the Kin1 Accessible Ball Diamond
Accessible upgrades offer inclusive opportunities for athletes, families and community sport
The City of Cambridge celebrated the official reopening of the KIN1 Accessible Ball Diamond today with an event that brought together Buddy League players and families, sponsors, donors, members of Council and City staff for a day of baseball and community fun.
The event marked the completion of the newly upgraded and fully accessible ball diamond, which has been designed to provide a more accessible and inclusive experience for athletes and spectators of all abilities. The celebration included exhibition games, family-friendly activities and giveaways, a ribbon cutting and the unveiling of the new donor wall, recognizing those who contributed to the facility.
“Today is a celebration of what is possible when community partners come together with a shared commitment to inclusion,” said Mayor Jan Liggett. “The Kin1 Accessible Ball Diamond will help ensure athletes of all abilities have a welcoming place to play, connect, and build lasting memories right here in Cambridge. While athletes may experience the game in different ways, the feelings it creates are universal: the excitement of competition, the exhilaration of movement, and the pure joy that comes from being on the field.”
Recent upgrades to the facility ensured it is fully accessible and friendly to all users. The project took steps to remove barriers and support participation. Upgrades included adding accessible pathways, artificial turf on the infield, covered dugouts, upgraded seating.
“This project reflects Cambridge’s commitment to broadening access to recreation and creating spaces where everyone can participate,” said Acting City Manager Lesley Head. “We are proud to support adaptive sport in our community and grateful to the sponsors, donors, staff and volunteers who helped bring this important facility to life.”
Through its granting program, Field Of Dreams made possible by TD, Jays Care Foundation funded $171,659 to support accessibility improvements at the baseball diamond. The Foundation also helped enhance the grand opening celebration through event programming, volunteer support and giveaways for attendees.
“Jays Care Foundation is proud to support communities that are using baseball to create a sense of belonging and opportunity,” said Meghan Kennedy, Director of Programs. “KIN1 Accessible Ball Diamond is a powerful example of how inclusive sport spaces can help more children, youth and families experience the joy of the game.”
The project, budgeted at $3.025M, received significant contributions from community partners and donors totalling nearly $830,000. In addition to the Jays Care funding through Field Of Dreams made possible by TD, contributors included the L.S. Hallman Foundation, Toyota Motor Manufacturing and CUPE 1882, as well as community contributions through the City’s Play it Forward campaign. Community members and businesses seeking to add their name to the roster of sponsors and donors can visit cambridge.ca/PlayItForward to contribute to the campaign.
