CHICAGO, IL – Chicago Challenger League is excited to announce that they will be starting the 2021 season on June 6th, 2021. “Last year, with COVID, we had to put our games on hold,” explained Challenger President Thomas Mayer. “It was heartbreaking because I know how important the league is to the families who participate. But we want everyone to know that we will be back for 2021, and we have taken steps to follow COVID guidelines and provide a fun and safe environment for players.”
The Challenger Division is a division of Little League for boys and girls with physical and mental challenges, ages 4 – 18 (or up to age 22 if still enrolled in high school) to enjoy the game of baseball. In a Challenger game, each player bats and plays the field each inning. No score is kept during Challenger games, but rather the focus is on player interaction and skill development – both physical and interpersonal. That said, they still get competitive with players competing against their best selves. Games are played Sunday morning at Horner Park. The goal for the Chicago Little League is to ensure that each player has the opportunity to increase their knowledge and skill of the game while having fun and being part of the team.
An important part of the Challenger experience is the community it creates. It’s an opportunity for kids, their families, and volunteers to come together. Buddies help the player bat, field, run the bases, stay safe on the field, and learn the fundamentals of the game. “This year, we are asking for Buddies from the player’s families, to follow Little League COVID guidelines,” Mayer explained. “But we are always looking for volunteers to help on game day, get the word out and raise funds for the program.” While there is a registration fee, Mayer said that they are seeking donations to pay for uniforms and baseball supplies like balls and bats. He also noted that no family will be turned away if they can’t pay the registration fee. “We want to grow our league and encourage people to come out and participate. That’s the important thing.” The League will play games on Sunday, June through August.