Challenger Division
Program Overview
The Darien Little League’s Challenger Division is a program that enables mentally and physically-challenged youth to enjoy the full benefits of Little League participation in an athletic environment structured to their abilities. In its 15th year, Darien’s Challenger Division is one of the largest in Connecticut.
The philosophy is to give all children the chance to play baseball in a setting that is fun and supportive. A big part of this, for the players, is to experience the sense of belonging that comes with being a part of a team, as well as the spirit of friendly competition through games with other Challenger teams from neighboring towns. In Challenger baseball, scores don’t count - everybody is a winner. It’s all about acceptance, self-esteem, positive learning experiences and team spirit.
Buddies
Since the majority of Challenger players require support to successfully participate, they are paired up with volunteer “buddies” who become their personal guides. The players need varying degrees of support, but whenever possible, they are encouraged to be independent, with “buddies” close by to lend a hand, when necessary.
Program Management
Head Coach, Mike Donoghue, leads a team of volunteer managers and coaches who provide positive and constructive direction tempered with patience and understanding. Other key personnel include Directors Annmarie Medwid and Beth Siemers, Buddy Coordinators Maria Farren, Liz Gilbert, Megan Brown and Cece Donoghue, and Sponsor Dan Lovegrove of Recollectics Sports Memorabilia.
Anyone interested in assisting with coaching should contact Mike Donoghue directly at 203- 858-7327 or
.
For high-school students interested in becoming “buddies”, contact Cece Donoghue at 203-656-3195 or
.
Age & Participation Requirements
The Challenger Program serves the towns of Darien and New Canaan and is open to all challenged players 5 through 18 years of age. Players must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to all games and practices. For “away” games, transportation must be provided to fields in Stamford, Norwalk, Wilton, Fairfield and Greenwich.
Fee
The program fee is $50 for the Winter 2013 season, $150 for the Spring 2013 season, per player. Scholarships are available upon request. Contact Mike Donoghue at 203-858-7237 or
.
Schedule
For the Winter season, practices take place at the Town Hall Gym on Saturdays from January through March. For the Spring season, practices and “home” games take place at the Challenger Field at McGuane Park on Saturdays and Sundays from April to June.
Important Dates – Spring 2013
Saturday, April 27th Season Begins - First Practice
Saturday, April 28th Parade and Opening Ceremonies
Saturday, May 4th - Team Photos
Sunday, May 5th Team Photos
Saturday, May 18th - Team Photos
Sunday, May 19th Team Photos
Saturday, May 25th - Operation DLL Cares
Sunday, May 26th Operation DLL Cares
Saturday, June 15th Season Ends/Awards
Sunday, June 16th Season Ends/Awards
Registration
Please use the "Register OnLine" tab on the home page of the Darien Little League website. Contact Annmarie Medwid at
or Beth Siemers at
for further information.
