The Challenger Baseball League is Little League’s adaptive baseball program for individuals with physical and intellectual challenges. The Little League Challenger Division accommodates players ages 5 to 18; or up to age 22 if still enrolled in school. The Senior League Challenger Division accommodates players ages 15 and above (no maximum age). Because DuBois Challenger Baseball is one of the areas only adaptive baseball programs, the league currently has athletes from 4 different PA counties – spanning 70 miles!
The DuBois Challenger Baseball League was started in 2009 with the help of a few volunteer coaches, and monetary donations from local businesses, clubs, or private donors. The Challenger program utilizes a buddy system. Many kids consistently volunteer their time to assist and encourage Challenger players. Additionally, community members, sponsors, local businesses, and neighboring school athletic teams have stepped up to be buddies to our athletes. This relationship is a very rewarding experience for everyone involved.
When Challenger started in DuBois, there were approximately 25 kids playing on 3 teams. Games were played at the end of the summer over a two-week span. This was the only time a field was available with dugouts large enough to accommodate wheelchairs. Many games had to be cancelled because the weather caused the field conditions to be unsafe for our players.
The 2023 season consists of over 100 players on 8 different teams. Braves, Champs & Dynamite make up the Little League Division and the Senior League Division features Aces, Flash, Legends, Pride & Spirit. This summer, DuBois Challenger Baseball has a jam-packed, 48 game season with each team scheduled to take the field for 12 games.
Games are being played during the regular Little League season on the Rose and Dennis Heindl Memorial Field. Our Challenger players and volunteers are full of gratitude with the opportunity to be playing at, not only a safe and accessible complex, but one of the nicest stadiums in the state!
Those unable to make it to Heindl to watch these amazing athletes take the field can follow along with the fun on their Facebook & Instagram pages @DuboisChallengerBaseball
Contact Information for Challenger League:
DuBois Little League – VP of Challenger
Angela Stewart
