Questions about Challenger Division

What is the Challenger program? The Challenger Division offers boys and girls with physical and mental challenges, ages 5 to 18 (or the completion of high school), the opportunity to participate in an organized game of baseball program. The most fundamental goal of the Challenger Division is to give everyone a chance to play.

Who Can Play? Any physically and/or developmentally challenged boy or girl living in Santa Barbara County, 5- 18 years old prior to May 1st.  Wheelchair users welcomed! 

Do Challenger’s play a real game? Competitive Baseball is possible for Challenger teams as skill levels allow.  Challenger Division rules allow for modification at all levels. 

How do you adapt baseball? Teams for all levels:  Coach-pitch, tee ball games, and Skill Drill teams work on batting, catching, throwing; fielding with buddies and volunteers.  Adaptive equipment used for player needs – bean bags, whiffle and squishy balls, etc.

Where do Challenger’s play and when? Girsh Park behind Costco in Goleta for one hour on Saturday mornings, with the exception of Spring Break and Memorial Day weekend.  Season begins in March and ends in June.  There are no mid-week sessions at this time.

Are Challenger Teams in other cities? Little League Challenger Teams operate around the world, hosting area wide, state, national and global “tournaments” or Jamborees where teams come together to play against other Challenger teams for fun and awards.

Can my child start after the season begins?  YES – as long as we have space on our teams and enough volunteer help.

How much does it cost? Registration fee: $40.00 per player covers insurance, field rental, awards, team photo, uniform shirt, cap and socks.  Players provides mitt/glove, home practice balls and white baseball pants.  Scholarship funds available upon request.

Who are the coaches/volunteers? Coach and field staff are parents or friends of  players, community members and college students committed to working with special needs kids, required to complete an application process which includes a routine background check. 

How do I register my child?  Print form, complete and mail along with registration fee to P.O. Box 1243 Goleta, CA  93116.  NEW online electronic registration option  available OR call 805.681.9165 for registration packet to be mailed to you.

Is there a refund for weeks we do not attend? Unfortunately no.  You may discuss concerns with the Challenger Coordinator – dpllchallengers@yahoo.com.

How do I get involved as a volunteer? Contact DPLL Challenger Coordinator at dpllchallengers@yahoo.com or call 805.681.9165.   Download the Volunteer Application form to be submitted for a routine background