What is "Little League Challenger Division" Baseball?
The Challenger League is a division of Little League baseball. It is a program for mentally and physically challenged youths, to enjoy the full benefits of"Little League" participation in an athletic environment structured to THEIR abilities. The Challenger Division accomodates participants ages 5 through 18 (or through completion of high school). Although Little League has offered this program since 1989, DeMotte Little League began offering the program in 2019.
What’s our philosophy?
The philosophy of Little League Challenger Division is to provide the framework so the every program may offer athletic activity for ALL youth within our community. 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 (which some of our children have NEVER been able to do before!) The strengthening of the children’s self-esteem, the disciplines of teamwork, citizenship and fair play, which are hallmarks of the Little League program.Here’s how we do it …
The Challenger Division makes some rule changes to make the games more enjoyable for the kids. We either “coach pitch” to the kids or use a tee-ball stand, whichever is more comfortable for the player. We bat through the line-up each inning. The last batter in the inning runs around the bases until all the base runners reach home plate. No score is kept all games end in a tie. Everyone is a WINNER! We also implement the use of the “Buddy” system in our games. Each child may have a buddy, which can be a parent, sibling or other friend or helper that would like to participate. Our Buddy System really enhances the game. Each buddy provides assistance as needed. A child in a wheelchair may need a push around the bases, or a child with developmental delays may need assistance with batting or throwing, others may need help catching or simply finding the bases. We have children with a wide variety of special needs. Buddies are very important, providing encouragement to help our children achieve their goals. Which simply put means …. To have a GREAT TIME!! It truly is a memorable experience for all.Want to help?
We are looking for volunteers to help make our first season a success! All of DeMotte Little League - including the Challenger Division - is made possible by volunteers, including board members, coaches, umpires, buddies, and various committees members including our fundraising group and public relations. We can always use more help in any of these areas. Additionally, cash or equipment contributions made can be directed specifically towards our Challenger Division for things like uniforms, equipment, trophies, insurance, and other needs
Register soon!
Registration is now open online at www.demottelittleleague.com. You can also register in person, at Covenant Christian High School, on February 1 (11:15 pm - 4:00 pm) or February 22nd (11:00 pm - 2:00 pm). Registration fees for this division are $30. Scholarships are available for those who are unable to pay due to financial hardship. The season opening and closing dates will be the same as other divisions. We anticipate having one game per week, likely on weekends, and may play at home or in other towns nearby with similar programs.