SPRINGFIELD — Gold-painted shovels moved the first piles of dirt on what will become a golden opportunity for the children of Effingham County.

Houston Astros outfielder Josh Reddick and Effingham County dignitaries churned the soil following a Saturday morning groundbreaking ceremony for Josh Reddick Field at the Clarence E. Morgan Complex. Reddick donated nearly $1 million for the construction of an artificial turf baseball field that children with disabilities can use.

“I feel grateful to be a part of this day and to be able to be a part of such a great county,” said Reddick, a 2005 South Effingham graduate whose team beat the Los Angeles Dodgers in the World Series on Nov. 1.

Reddick and members of his Josh Reddick Foundation have been instrumental in developing plans for the field. It is expected to be ready for play in three months.

“We’re all about helping future generations,” Reddick said. “We want to leave this world in better shape for the kids behind you. That’s the main goal right now.”

Severals speakers expressed gratitude for Reddick’s compassion and generosity.

“I just want to say thank you, Josh Reddick. “The good Lord has blessed you, this community has blessed you and you are blessing us again,” state Rep. Jon Burns said.