We are very excited to announce that starting this season Mount Seymour will be the proud host league for the North Shore Adult Challenger Baseball program. We are very lucky to have Ian McLean stepping up to be the Challenger program coordinator for the adult group. Ian is the National Coordinator of Challenger Baseball Canada. He and is wife Julie were the original founders of North Shore Challenger Baseball Youth Program at Highlands LL back in 2004. Just this week it was announced that the Jays Care Foundation is assuming leadership of the Challenger Program.
We are hoping to have two teams in our inaugural season with approximately 4-5 players per team. The Challenger sessions will be held in the early afternoon on Saturdays at Myrtle Park and last around 90 minutes. The game itself will be around 45 minutes with the remaining time taken for warm-up and team talks.
What is Challenger Baseball?
Challenger Baseball is a program that provides an opportunity for children and adults 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 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 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, 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.
Who is Eligible to Play?
North Shore Challenger Baseball is open to all residents of North and West Vancouver with cognitive or physical disabilities – you do not need to live within the Mount Seymour or Highlands catchment areas.
For more information or to register for the youth program – click here.
To register for the Adult program – click here, or for more information – click here.
Find Out More
To learn more about the Challenger Baseball Program check out these links or watch the video: