Wild Things debut sensory room at EQT Park
The Washington Wild Things and PathWays of Southwestern Pennsylvania Inc. have expanded their ongoing multi-year partnership to unveil a new sensory-safe room at EQT Park.
The room, which occupies the former box office space behind home plate, is designed to provide a welcoming, calming environment for individuals who may benefit from stepping away from the noise and activity of the game or event for a quiet break, according to a release.
PathWays Communications Manager Julie Philabaum said the idea for the sensory room came from a brainstorming session with EQT Park CEO Christine Blaine earlier this year.
“We just got more and more excited the more we talked about it,” Philabaum said.
The room includes calm lighting, a spinning chair and toys for children, among other fixtures intended to create a soothing atmosphere.
“Our organization, The Washington Wild Things, is all about community and offering things that enhance the quality of life here in our area,” Blaine said in a statement. “Working with the folks from PathWays has been inspiring. Their desire to offer a sensory room to fans at a ballgame was a genius idea, and we are thrilled to be able to offer it in 2026 and beyond.”
Although the idea was only hatched in January or February of this year, ballpark staff were able to quickly convert the former box office site into the sensory room in time for the Wild Things’ home opener against the Schaumburg Boomers on May 15.
Philabaum credits the close collaboration and partnership with the Wild Things for the quick turnaround on the sensory room project.
“At Pathways, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to feel included and supported while enjoying community experiences,” Edward Yongo, President & CEO of PathWays said in a statement. “This partnership with the Washington Wild Things is an exciting step toward making local events more accessible to individuals and families throughout our region.”
PathWays is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing support services for individuals with physical and mental disabilities across Southwestern Pennsylvania.
PathWays and the Washington Wild Things will also celebrate Autism Awareness Night on June 16 at EQT Park. During the event, PathWays will distribute custom Jibbitz charms to attendees and raffle off a custom Rawlings baseball bat, according to a release.