Mikey's League, Inc.

Mikey’s League was founded in 2019 with a powerful objective: to challenge the limits placed on children with disabilities and allow them to inspire and teach us.  We believe in the power of sport, and its moments of triumph, to unify, heal, and provide the confidence needed to be successful in life, regardless of challenges.

We pursue this mission, and our vision of all kids experiencing moments of triumph, in honor of Michael “Mikey” Bender.  Mikey was born with cerebral palsy and a backwards heart. Despite the belief of doctors that Mikey would not live past age 3, he was able to make it to 21.  Mikey was passionate about sports and did not let his disabilities hold him back.  Even though there were no intramural programs for him, he played backyard sports with his brothers and their friends.  Those games became some of the best, and most enduring memories for both Mikey and his family.  It is in honor of his legacy that Mikey’s League was established with the goal to create lasting memories and share Mikey’s love of sport.

Mikey's League was formed by childhood friends, who are continually inspired by Mikey and aim to challenge the idea that kids with disabilities need to be treated differently.  We want to expand Mikey's backyard football experience to the Valley, and in doing so provide adapted sports recreation opportunities for the community.   What separates Mikey’s League programs from similar programs is the focus on inclusion, not segregation.  Mikey’s League programs involve not just athletes with disabilities but their friends, family, and community.