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Challenger Program

What Is Challenger Baseball?

Challenger Baseball is a division of Baseball BC that provides an opportunity for children with cognitive or physical disabilities to enjoy the full benefits of participation in baseball at a level structured to their abilities.

Baseball games are played in a fun, safe environment where no score is kept. Able-bodied “Buddies” are assigned (one on one, where possible) to each participant. These Buddies assist the
Challenger Baseball players with their involvement in the game. Pushing wheelchairs around the base path, assisting players in how to hold the bat and swing, or providing protection for the Challenger Baseball player from a batted ball, are just a few of the ways the Buddies offer a better experience for the participants in Challenger Baseball. 

Each participant is treated like every other player in the conventional baseball program. All players are outfitted in uniforms, use the same equipment, and play their games at the local baseball parks. A team picture is a must for Challenger Baseball, as it is in the other divisions.

Last but not least, the smiles are plentiful and free! The joy on the face of each participant in Challenger Baseball makes it very clear how much fun they are having. No pressures, no playing time issues, everyone just has fun! It's what baseball is supposed to
be all about.

Little Mountain Challenger Division

Proud to be one of the most established Challenger Programs in Canada, Little Mountain Baseball has been supporting Challenger baseball for over 20 years. As one of only two Challenger Divisions in Vancouver, Little Mountain provides an adapted baseball experience for kids ages 8-18 and welcomes players from all over Vancouver.

Currently, our program runs on Sundays from 10am-12pm from May through July. We always look forward to seeing many new and returning players each season!

Our objectives are:

To provide an opportunity for children and youth with cognitive or physical disabilities to enjoy the benefits of playing baseball.

To educate the community that children with cognitive or physical disabilities can play organized baseball, just like their peers.

To help the youth in the community give back to society through volunteering in the Challenger program as “Buddies”.

Volunteer with Challenger Baseball - Be a Buddy

In Challenger Baseball, 'buddies' are volunteers who help to mentor players and provide a safe environment. Buddies work closely with players to help them catch, throw, field, hit, and get around the bases. Every year, players and buddies form lasting friendships and get to experience the thrill of Challenger Baseball together. Being a buddy is also a great opportunity for high school students to get service hours.

You do not need any baseball experience to be a buddy! We are always looking for driven, committed volunteers to become buddies once a week (Sundays 10am-12pm) from May until July. If that fits your vision, we would love to hear from you as soon as possible. Your participation will be greatly appreciated!

If you are interested in being a buddy, please complete the form linked below. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact our volunteer coordinators, Max Honey and Thomas Iverson, at challengerbuddies@littlemountainbaseball.com.

Be a Buddy!