The Challenger program of District 1 Little League program gives kids in our community with a wide range of disabilities a chance to participate in a team sport. The Little League Challenger program of District 1 is open to boys and girls ages 5 - 18 (age as of April 30, 2017) who are unable to participate in Little League Baseball or Softball programs due to physical, mental, or emotional/social disabilities. When needed, players may have a "buddy" to aid in their participation on the field.

This is a unique opportunity for them that is not available in many other sports. Our kids relish the chance to have uniforms, learn sports skills, and be cheered from the stands. Leagues schedule games on the same fields as their Little League Baseball or Softball programs, along side these games where possible. Our program is also a connection point for families to offer support and friendship to one another. Not to mention, our kids are an inspiration to our league!

The District 1 Challenger program runs mid-April through mid-June consisting of approximately 8 games per team. Teams will play against teams from District 1 as well as surrounding leagues. This may include teams from Oak Harbor, Bothell, or Shoreline area; and will depend on where your team is located. There will be approximately 8 games per season, typically played on Saturday or Sunday afternoons. Games consist of two innings where each child will bat and play in the field. Practices are limited in number and typically occur on Saturday or Sunday afternoons, varying by league. The emphasis is on fun! Everyone is invited to participate in the AquaSox Challenger Day program.

In 2016, District 1 hosted four Challenger teams with players from Alderwood, Everett, Mill Creek, Pacific and Snohomish. Our goal is to increase the number of leagues participating and the number of teams in 2017. Players should register with their home league (click here to locate your home league) by visiting their website for player registration. Depending on the number of registrations in each league, leagues will either host teams or combine players with a neighboring league.

Little League International established the Challenger Division was in 1989 as a separate division of Little League Baseball to enable boys and girls with physical and mental disabilities, ages 5-18 or the completion of high school, to enjoy the game of baseball along with the millions of other children who participate in this sport worldwide.

Teams are set up according to abilities, rather than age, and can include as many as 15-20 players, who can participate in one of three levels: Tee-Ball, Coach-Pitch or Player Pitch.

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 has been scored, or when three outs are recorded. Little League recommends that no score be kept during games. The Challenger players wear the same uniforms, shoulder patches and safety equipment as 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 themselves. However, the buddy is always nearby to help when needed.

Learn More about Little League Challenger Program here