New Westminster Challenger Baseball is an adaptive baseball program, run in partnership with Jays Care, Little League Canada, and Baseball Canada. The program is designed to empower girls and boys, youth, and adults living with physical and/or cognitive disabilities. The New West program runs in May and June at Lower Hume Park.
Athletes with disabilities involved in Challenger Baseball programs increase:
- Baseball & Physical Literacy skills
- Independence
- Self-esteem and self-awareness
- Relationships to peers
- Connection to positive role models
- Their courage to try new challenges
- Likelihood of living a physically active life
The focus is on fun and inclusivity! No prior experience in baseball/softball is required to join Challenger Baseball or to volunteer as a Buddy.
Buddies are volunteers from the community (typically motivated youth in other baseball leagues or schools) who partner with the Challenger Baseball athletes to create a fun, safe, and enjoyable experience for the athletes. Challenger Baseball volunteers often report that being a Buddy is a very fulfilling experience.
To learn more about registering in New Westminster Challenger Baseball, or to find out more about volunteering as a Buddy, please visit the New West Challenger Baseball website and the New West Challenger Baseball Facebook page.