THE OFFICIAL HOME OF
WNY CHALLENGER SPORTS
At our Challenger baseball games, each player bats every inning and everyone plays the entire game. Players needing assistance are assigned a buddy who works to ensure safety and success. A special soft baseball is used for all games, and a “T” is available for those who need it.
Each player receives a shirt and is assigned to a team. Coaches guide and mentor player’s safety and fun at all games. After each game, players and their families, buddies and game supporters gather for refreshments and to enjoy the company of friends.
Volunteers
An important part of the Challenger Sports program are the volunteers, coaches and team parents that help organize and conduct the games on the field. Two coaches are assigned to each team to help with communication, scheduling, pictures and volunteer management within their respective team families.The volunteers and coaches keep the flow of the game going.
Buddies
Baseball Buddies are volunteers that help their challenged partners by acting as guides for individuals with visual impairments, by pushing wheelchair-bound individuals around the bases, or by helping players bat or field the ball.
A Buddy's job is simply to be a friend, engage the individuals in conversation, help the players hit the ball if needed, throw & catch the ball if needed, keep the individual’s attention on the game and make sure that the players are safe and no one gets injured. This becomes a rewarding experience for both the player and the Buddy. The Baseball Buddies program allows the parents to receive a much deserved break and cheer the players from the stands. We ask that Baseball Buddies arrive 15 minutes before the games.Games last approximately 1-1 1/2 hours.
Equipment
The Challenger program supplies a variety of bats and helmets for the players. There are also some gloves available for use during games. Many families prefer to purchase their own glove so they can assure a good fit. No special shoes are necessary. A shirt is given to each player.Challenger baseball games are played on Ray Lee Fields at the Lockport Little League facility on Lincoln Ave in Lockport next to Allie Brandt's bowling alley.
For questions and/or additional information
please contact:
Brenda (716)572-3147
Vince (716) 930-7720