Challenger Division looks to increase participation
Tuesday, December 25, 2012
Little Leagues in Clark County are hoping a change in the way they operate the Challenger Division will increase participation in its program for kids with disabilities.
Mike Ray, district administrator for Little League District 4 in Washington, said that starting this year district personnel will organize and operate the Challenger Division for the leagues in Southwest Washington. Previously, individual leagues had the option of organizing a Challenger Division.
Ray said the cost to play in the Challenger Division will be $25, and include both spring and fall seasons.
Little League established the Challenger Division in 1989. Boys and girls with physical and mental challenges, ages 4-18, or up to age 22 if still enrolled in high school, are allowed to play. Teams are set up according to abilities rather than age, and can include as many as 15-20 players.
Registration for Little League baseball and softball programs takes place in January. On Jan. 1, The Columbian will publish sign-up information for all 18 Little Leagues in the area.
