Challengers is a program designed for ‘kids that would find it difficult to play conventional baseball or softball’. A partial list of challenges that players in this division might face include: autism, spina bifida, Down’s syndrome, TBI, cerebral palsy, deafness, blindness, seizure disorders, motor delays, or the use of braces, wheelchair, or walker.
Ages/levels of Play: There are 2 divisions within the Challenger Program
Challengers: Ages 4-18 (22 if still enrolled in school) Description: a soft T-ball is used and batters hit from a tee or soft pitch from an adult. All players bat and even if ‘outs’ are accomplished, runners remain on base, continuing through the inning receiving praise and high-fives when they cross home plate. Eventually, the plan is to offer a more structured game, while learning the basic rules of ball along with skill building. Outs are acknowledged but play continues with the player receiving praise and high-fives when they cross the plate.
Challenger Senior: Any individual age 15 and above with a physical or intellectual challenge may participate in the Senior League Challenger Division. This division is designed as a non-competitive extension of the Little League Challenger Division. However, leagues may choose to implement some additional rules such as recording outs, keeping score, etc.
There is no registration fee for Challenger Players thanks to donations and sponsorships given for that purpose.