What is Challenger Baseball?

• Challenger Baseball is an adapted program that provides an opportunity for children and youth with cognitive, sensory and/or physical disabilities to play organized baseball at a level structured to their abilities.

Partnership

• Challenger Baseball Canada (a partnership between Baseball Canada, Little League Canada and Little League International) and the Jays Care Foundation are working together for the betterment of Challenger Baseball across Canada. These groups, along with Baseball Nova Scotia, are committed to developing Challenger Baseball in Nova Scotia.

Objectives

• To provide opportunities for children and youth with cognitive and/or physical disabilities to play organized baseball.
• To provide experiences that enhance the lives of children and youth with disabilities and their families.
• To empower children and youth with disabilities through baseball and physical activity.
• To teach children and youth with disabilities the core life skills inherent to baseball, including teamwork, communication, determination, resiliency, independence, confidence, self-esteem, social skills and courage.
• To provide opportunities for children and youth with disabilities to make new friends, meet other children and families in the community and become part of a team.

Basic Concepts

• Each participant is treated like every other minor baseball player.
• All players are provided a uniform and play their games at local baseball fields.
• Buddies are assigned to each player to help provide a safe and enjoyable experience.
• The program is designed for children aged four to eighteen - with some flexibility.