The Challenger Division of Little League is a program for developmentally and physically challenged youth, helping them to enjoy the full benefits of Little League participation in an athletic environment structured to their abilities. More than the skills of baseball learned through the experience, the value of the Little League Challenger Division is found in the proven therapeutic and socialization benefits of participating in sports; the strengthening of participants' self-esteem; the opportunities to mainstream into other divisions of play and the disciplines of teamwork, sportsmanship and fair play, which are hallmarks of the Little League program.
The Little League Challenger Division provides the framework so Little League programs may offer a structured, athletic activity for all youth in their communities. Playing with the same equipment on the same fields, Challenger Division participants have the opportunity to experience the joys of pulling together as a team, being cheered, and earning awards for their achievements. Today more than 30,000 children participate in more than 900 Challenger Divisions worldwide.
Teams are set-up by age and can include as many as 10-15 players. Challenger games can be played as t-ball games, coach pitch, player pitch, or a combination of the three.
In a Challenger game, each player gets a chance at bat. The side is retired when the offense has batted through the roster, or when a pre-determined number of runs have been scored, or when three outs are recorded. Little League recommends that no score be kept during Challenger games. The Challenger players wear the same uniforms, shoulder patches and safety equipment as other Little League players.
Who qualifies for the Challenger program? The Challenger Division offers boys and girls with physical and developmental challenges, ages 4 to adult, the opportunity to participate in an organized game of baseball. The most fundamental goal of the Challenger Division is to give everyone a chance to play.
Registration? Challenger registration will take place through this website. Scheduling and team assignments will be handled by District 8 and their staff. The season will run roughly mid-April through mid-June.