Challenger Little League Team
Beginning in 2016, District 2 assumed supervision of the area's Little League Challenger programs in order to best grow the program on a wider-scale. Chuck DeLuca, former Little League World Series manager and a longtime administrator in Challenger programs, leads the district's efforts. To reach Chuck, you can email him at: [email protected].
What is the Little League Challenger Program? The Little League Challenger Program is Little League’s adaptive baseball program for individuals with physical and developmental challenges. Little League provides an informative video about the program here.
Who can participate in the Little League Challenger Program? Any individual with a physical or intellectual challenge may participate. If an individual can participate in the traditional Little League Baseball or Softball program with reasonable accommodations they should do so. The Little League Challenger Division accommodates players ages 4-18, or up to age 22 if still enrolled in school. The Senior League Challenger Division accommodates players ages 15 and above (no maximum age).
Is there a cost to participate in the Challenger Program? There is no fee to be part of the NC District 2 Challenger Program.
What rules are followed during a Challenger game? Flexibility and adaptability are key during Challenger games. Little League provides all chartered teams with a rulebook that includes a best practices guide to operating a Challenger Game. Typically games are 1-2 innings long and last about an hour. All players play defensively and bat every inning.
What are “buddies” and what role do they have in the Challenger Division? Buddies are individuals who assist Challenger athletes in the areas of batting, base running and defense, but only as needed. Often buddies are peer athletes who are participating in the Little League Baseball or Softball program.
What type of field are Challenger Games played on? Challenger games may be played on a traditional or synthetic baseball or softball field. Little League encourages the use of traditional fields for the Challenger Program so that participants can enjoy playing on the same type of field as their peers. District 2 is trying to schedule games using both options this season