Little League Continues Hosting Challenger Division for Children with Special Needs

The Challenger Division was established in 1989 as a separate division of Little League to enable boys and girls with special needs, ages 4-18, or up to age 22 if still enrolled in high school, the opportunity to play baseball. 

The Challenger Division is available in both River Edge and Oradell. Also participating this year is the New Milford, Dumont and Bergenfield Little Leagues. 

The River Edge Challenger Division is organized through the River Edge Families of Children United for Special Needs (FOCUS) after being run through the Oradell Little League its first year. The Challenger team through the River Edge Little League Association for girls and boys is available from age six through nine. Older children are welcome to sign up for the Oradell Challenger leagues. 

Challenger division teams are set up according to abilities, rather than age, and can include as many as 15-20 players. Challenger games can be played as tee ball games, coach pitch, player pitch, or a combination of the three. 

"Buddies" assist players in the Challenger Division if needed. Otherwise, players are encouraged to field and bat on their own.

All players are provided with team cap and jersey and participate in a trophy ceremony at the end of the season.

To volunteer, an application and a national background check must be completed. Teenagers may become buddies, while parents may become involved in practices, and be eligible as coaches, umpires, and other volunteer positions. 

For more information, or to register visit River Edge's Little League website by clicking here or Oradell Little League here. Or contact Challenger League Commissioner Larry Weisberg by emailing lw1159@aol.com or calling 201-986-1752.