The Challenger Division is a newer program now offered within Hopkinton Little League. Challenger is an adaptive baseball program geared towards individuals with physical and intellectual challenges.

If an individual can/and would like to participate in the traditional Little League baseball or softball programs with some accommodations we encourage them to do so.

About the program:

Challenger accommodates players ages 4-18, or up to age 22 if still enrolled in school. 

We focus on general skills, team building and fundamentals. Everyone takes a turn at bat, advances the bases, and plays in the field. Players are supported in each session by a Challenger team coach, program volunteers and will also be paired up 1-2 with “Buddies”. 

Buddies are local students between the ages of 12-18 who volunteer to help get players acquainted and comfortable with the program setting. They assist with overall participation, skills and playing catch so friends/family members can sit back and cheer for your favorite players!

Buddies are consistently paired with players for each practice session throughout the season. Our biggest goal is fun! It's a great way to enjoy the Spring season, meet new people and play some ball.

Registration is free to players and the program is fully supported by Hopkinton Little League sponsors and volunteers. We welcome players from neighboring towns who do not have a Challenger team and would like to participate. 

Schedule:

• Practices/games are a combined 1.5 hrs, typically played on Sunday afternoons at 3:15pm on Carrigan Field 1 in Hopkinton, MA

• The field offers easy access that is fully enclosed

• Typically a season includes 6-8 games/practices starting in early May thru June

• There are no practice/games Memorial Day weekend

• The schedule will be communicated prior to the start of the season

What’s provided:

• Game jerseys and hats are provided for all players

• The league will also supply equipment, bats and helmets if needed

• After practice snack from the “Doghouse”

What you'll need:

• A water bottle

• Players will need to bring a baseball/softball glove (if you do not have one the league can help provide one)

• Baseball/softball pants (or any comfortable athletic pants are fine)

• Non-metal cleats or athletic shoes with good traction (please no sandals or crocs)

Questions?

If you have any questions about the program please feel free to reach out to Carrie Rych, HLL VP Challenger Program at [email protected].

CHALLENGER BUDDY PROGRAM

Interested in volunteering to be a Buddy?

If you are between the ages of 12-18+, have a love for playing ball and are passionate about helping others learn the game, this may be a great program for you! We do ask that you can commit to the season and be available for weekly scheduled sessions with the team.

If you’d like to apply, please email your interest to Carrie Rych, HLL VP Challenger Program at [email protected].