The Little League Challenger Division is an adaptive baseball program designed specifically for individuals with physical and intellectual challenges. It allows boys and girls to enjoy the game of baseball in a safe, fun, and highly supportive environment tailored to their unique abilities.
Core Features of the Challenger Division
- Who Can Play: Open to ages 4 to 18 (or up to age 22 if still enrolled in school). There is also a Senior League Challenger Division for players ages 15 and older, with no maximum age.
- Game Structure: Games typically last 1 to 2 innings or about one hour. Scores are not kept; the primary focus is on participation, exercise, and having fun.
- Buddies: Every player is paired with a "buddy" (often a peer athlete, teenager, or volunteer) who assists them with batting, base-running, and fielding only as much as needed.
- At-Bats: Every player has the opportunity to bat every inning. The inning concludes once the entire roster has batted.
- Adaptability: Depending on the players' abilities, the game can be played using a batting tee, coach-pitch, or player-pitch. Softer, low-flight baseballs are usually used to ensure safety