The Little League Challenger Division was established in 1989 as a separate division of Little League to enable 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 along with the millions of other children who participate in this sport worldwide. Today more than 30,000 children participate in more than 900 Challenger Divisions worldwide.

Teams are set up according to age, rather than abilities, and can include as many as 15 players. Challenger games can be played as Tee Ball games, coach pitch, player pitch, or a combination of the three.

A Challenger game lasts for two innings. Each player gets a turn to bat and plays in the field for both innings. Score is not kept and outs do not count. Challenger is about being a part of a team, learning about the sport of baseball, improving your skills, and having fun. A soft, Tee Ball-style baseball is used during games.

Games are played on Sundays during the season with a start time of 3:00pm. Challenger Division plays teams outside of VBLL, so we have some home games at VBLL, but we also play at other Little League Complexes in Virginia Beach and Norfolk. Our season usually consists of 10 games.

Our Challenger Coaches and teams have found that with school, therapy sessions, and appointments, that it is difficult for the parents and players to hold practices. We gather prior to each game to practice and warm up.

The VBLL Challenger Program is free players with physical and/or intellectual difficulties who typically have an IEP or 504 plan at school. Coaches meet the players at their level and abilities. Practices and games are optional. The Challenger Division encourages the use of “buddies” for the Challenger players. Often the parents or siblings act as a buddy to their player. The buddies assist the Challenger players on the field and at bat. Buddies are instrumental in keeping the players engaged and aware of what’s happening in the game.