Registration has already begun for North Shore Little League players with special needs and it's easy to get involved, whether as a player or volunteer.
Operating as a division of Highlands Little League for the past 10 years, the Challenger Program presents special needs kids on the North Shore with the chance to play baseball in a fun team atmosphere. Open to kids ages five and over, the first game of the season kicks off the weekend following Easter. Latecomers need not worry, however, according to program co-ordinator Anna Donnelly, whose own child plays in the program.
"We usually have a few extra uniforms. We've had people register mid-season. So we don't cut it off, we're not like that. We have a few extra resources."
Donnelly explained the program is the second largest in the province after the Tri-Cities counterpart and can accommodate up to 70 players. Within that there are six teams that compete against one another every Saturday until the season ends in June. Disabilities in players range from physical to neurological disorders, according to Donnelly, who explained the program's launch came about by parents looking to create an inclusive environment for their children to play sports in, no matter what their ability.
"I think there were parents that wanted their kids to play baseball and realized their kids didn't have anywhere to play."
Donnelly went on to explain the growing popularity of such programs, particularly in B.C. "Sport is so big now for kids and they see that. Their peers are all playing on teams and they have their caps and everything. So I think they really feel like they're part of a community and they play on a team as well."
Donnelly said aside from Highlands and Tri-Cities, the two biggest in the province, challenger teams have been incorporated into Richmond, Prince George, the Sunshine Coast, and places on Vancouver Island. In fact popularity has grown across the country with some major sponsors coming on board, including the Toronto Blue Jays. Local and national sponsors have helped ensure that the cost of playing for children is covered.
The program also depends on volunteer workers who act as buddies for the players to make sure their experience with the program is a safe and positive one. "The games are adapted to each player through
the use of tees, bats, bases with horns and a volunteer buddy. .. for each player to help them navigate through the game and help keep them safe," said Jonathan Alpen, secretary for Highlands Little League.
Donnelly said those interested in registering their child in the program or those interested in volunteering can contact her through her email address posted on the Highlands Little League's website. The first game of the season kicks off at Delbrook Park on Saturday, April 11 at 10 a.m.
Little Leagues across the North Shore are getting into the swing of things. Here are some of the opening day ceremonies already scheduled, as listed on the league websites: Mount Seymour Little League, Saturday, April 11, 11:45 a.m.; Lynn Valley Little League, Saturday, April 11, Kilmer Park; North Van Central Little League, April 18; Highlands Little League, April 18, noon, Delbrook Field; Forest Hills Little League, April 12.
For more information on all of the leagues visit the District 5 Little League site at eteamz.com/nvdistrict5.
