Challenger Baseball

Challenger Baseball is a program that provides an opportunity for children 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!!

CHALLENGER BASEBALL GOALS

• To provide opportunities for Children, Youth and Adults with disabilities to play organized baseball

• To provide experiences that enhance the lives of participants and their families.

• To teach and empower children, youth and adults with disabilities the core life skills inherent to baseball including teamwork, communication, determination, resiliency, inclusion, independence, confidence, self-esteem, social skills and courage

• To provide the basis of physical literacy to allow participants to continue with baseball, sports and physical activity into adulthood.

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Manitoba Challenger Baseball Provincial Contact

Vanessa Zebinski - vanessa.mcclelland@gmail.com
Nicky Saindon - ndbb@mymts.net

SOCIAL MEDIA
Find, follow and like Manitoba Challenger Baseball on:
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LEAGUES
The following Manitoba leagues host Challenger Baseball Divisions
(click on their name to be taken directly to their websites):?

 

DIVISION	CATCHMENT	INFORMATION
ST JAMES ASSINIBOIA MINOR BASEBALL ASSOCIATION	North of the Assiniboine River to the Perimetre Hwy, West of Rte. 90 and South of Inkster Blvd. to Red River. Also including the RM of Rosser & Headingley.	Les McRae St James Division Coordinator bronco_70@rocketmail.com   CLICK HERE FOR SJAMBA PROGRAM INFORMATION
WINNIPEG SOUTH MINOR BASEBALL ASSOCIATION	South of Assiniboine River to Red River, East of Red River to South of CN Rail Main Line (HWY 1).  This includes areas such as Lorette, Iles Des Chenes, St. Adolphe, La Salle, St. Norbert, Steinbach, La Broquerie, Grunthal, St. Anne, etc.	Pat Turgeon Winnipeg South Division Coordinator pturgeon@gilfor.com CLICK HERE FOR WSMBA PROGRAM INFORMATION
NORTH WINNIPEG MINOR BASEBALL ASSOCIATION	NORTH: Perimeter Highway and the RM of St. Andrews north border, to include the RM of West St. Paul, the RM of St. Andrews and the City of Selkirk. SOUTH: Assiniboine River. EAST: Lake Winnipeg and the Red River. WEST: St. James St./Century (Route 90) and the west borders of the RM of West St. Paul and the RM of St. Andrews.	Nicky Saindon North Winnipeg Division Coordinator ndbb@mymts.net   CLICK HERE FOR NWMBA PROGRAM INFORMATION
RED RIVER VALLEY BASEBALL	NORTH: Along Red River North to include Bird’s Hill Park, RM of E. St. Paul, RM of St. Clement to Highway #4 and #435 (including Lockport and East Selkirk). SOUTH: South side of the following: CNR main line to Lagimodiere Blvd. South on Lagimodiere to Fermor (Trans-Canada Highway #1). Fermor to the Perimeter Highway and the RM of Springfield line. EAST: Includes RM of Springfield to Highway 12, to include Dugald, Oakbank, Anola and Hazelridge. ?WEST: The Red River?	Michelle Camire RRV Division Coordinator challenger@redrivervalleybaseball.ca   CLICK HERE FOR RRVB PROGRAM INFORMATION
MORDEN CHALLENGER BASEBALL	Anywhere South of Winnipeg	Connie Hesom Morden Division Coordinator PH: 204-362-1020 EM: cfphesom@gmail.com   CLICK HERE FOR MORDEN PROGRAM INFORMATION

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NATIONAL AFFILIATIONS
Manitoba Challenger Baseball is in association nationally with:
Challenger Baseball Canada
Jays Care Foundation
Baseball Canada