Virginia Little League District 8 will host the fourth annual Challenger Little League Baseball World Jamboree May 9-10, 2009 at the Azalea Little League Complex in Norfolk. The jamboree will include games, tours, picnics and other special events. The event in the previous years has drawn nearly 100 Challenger teams each year to Tidewater from throughout the United States, including from as far away as Arizona and California. Teams also have come from at least four foreign countries.
In 1989, Little League launched its Challenger Division to provide boys and girls with disabilities the opportunity to enjoy and participate in the game of baseball. Disabled children from the ages of 5-18 are eligible to participate. Challenger baseball features “buddies” who help their partners by assisting the Challenger players when needed. Games typically last no more than 4 innings, and every player gets one at bat in each inning. The “buddy” guides the player along the bases and/or will assist in the field. Some Challenger players can play with little help, but most need some sort of assistance (some are severely handicapped). Regardless of their ability or the severity of their handicap, they all are given a chance to do things that they simply can’t do at home. They are the center of attention. The whole day is a wonderful experience for anyone associated with the program whether volunteer, parent or player.
Who should you contact to volunteer? Doug Barnhart. Email Doug at dbarnhart1@cox.net or call him at 469-3679 (leave a message) to let him know for what time slot(s) you are volunteering. Advance notice is not required but is very helpful in planning field assignments.
What are the game times??
SATURDAY – MAY 9 - 11:00, 12:30, 2:00 & 3:30
SUNDAY – MAY 10 - 9:30 & 11:00
What do volunteer players do? Players serve as buddies, sell programs, serve as announcers, etc.
Can adults volunteer? Most certainly. Adults also wills serve as buddies, serve as announcers, sell programs and yes, some may be asked to work in concessions or do field maintenance.
Games will be played on 12 fields at one time. With this many game and teams, there is no such thing as too many volunteers. Everyone who shows up will be put to work.
What should players wear? Baseball or softball uniforms are preferable. That really thrills the Challenger participants. Some players wear just a jersey with jeans.
Can volunteers sign up for more than one game? You bet. Come and stay all day if you want!
When are volunteers to report? 30 minutes before the game’s start time.
Where are the games? Azalea Gardens Little League Complex.
Where do volunteers report at the Complex? There will be a volunteers’ booth located next to the playground. When you arrive at the Complex, the concession stand will be immediately in front of you and the playground is in front of that. Volunteers will be assigned to a field from this booth.
What about parking? In addition to parking at the Complex (which may fill up fast), local business in the vicinity of the Complex are permitting their lots to be used.
How does one get there? The Complex is on Pineridge Rd in Norfolk. If traveling East on Virginia Beach Blvd, turn Left onto Azalea Garden Road. Go 4/10 mile. Turn Right on Village Ave. Go 2/10 of a mile. Turn Right onto Pineridge. Go 1/10 mile.
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