The Challenger Division was established in 1989 as a separate division of Little League Baseball to enable boys and girls with physical and mental challenges 4-21 (or until completion of high school) to enjoy the game of baseball along with the millions of the other children who participate in this sport worldwide.

Teams are set up with anywhere from 8 to 12 players depending on the sign-ups for any given season. Each player gets a chance to bat, either by tee-ball or pitch. The side is retired when the offense has batted through the roster. The Challenger players wear the same uniforms, shoulder patches and safety equipment as the other Little League players.

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 for themselves. However, the buddy is always nearby to help when needed.

Parents and teenagers are strongly encouraged to become involved in this division of Little League. Teenagers may become buddies, after completing a Little League volunteer application and passing a required national background check. Parents can become involved by being a buddy to their own child, becoming a coach, volunteer on the board, becoming a team mom, and/or other positions within the league.

The registration fee for the Challenger Division is $40 per player with a limit of $80 for a family with three or more players. In the event of financial hardship, scholarships are available pending the approval of the board.

Please see our website at www.challengerdistrict11southbend.com for registration and medical release forms.If you are unable to do so, please contact Brian Wray at 574-292-5533 for copiesto be mailed.

If you have any questions or concerns please email: challengerleaguesb@gmail.com.