Challenger Division:
The Challenger Division was established in 1989 as a separate
division of Little League to enable boys and girls with physical and
mental challenges, ages 5-18, or up to age 22 if still enrolled in High School, to enjoy
the game of baseball along with the millions of other children who
participate in this sport worldwide. Today more than 30,000 children
participate in more than 900 Challenger Divisions worldwide.
Teams are set up according to abilities, rather than age, and can
include as many as 15-20 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.
One of the benefits of having a Challenger Division is that it
encourages the use of "buddies" for the Challenger players. The buddies
assist the Challenger players on the field but whenever possible,
encourage the players to bat and make plays themselves. However, the
buddy is always nearby to help when needed.
Due to the generosity of the local civic minded groups such as the
Graybeards, the RIBs, The Jetty and WISH and others there will be no
charge to participants of the Challenger Division. The dedicated
volunteer coaches of the Rockaway Little League will be coaching and
organizing this endeavor under the guidance of Joe Featherston who is
also the President of the Rockaway Chapter of the Special Olympics. If
anyone has any questions please call Joe Braskey (347)558-6231. If
you would like to sign up or register your child please e-mail rockawaylittleleague@gmail.com,
please put Challenger Division in the subject line, or come to the
clubhouse at Fort Tilden during the times and dates of registration.
We would like to thank the following sponsors for the Challenger Division
Graybeards
The Rockaway Jetty
RIBS Foundation
The Orlow Firm
Ameritag
Peter Stubben
Mr & Mrs Edward Deacy
Rockaway Republicans
Dr. John Meringolo
Friends of Weiner
Wish