The San Clemente Little League Challenger Division will feature a Junior and Senior team for the first time in the league’s history. Courtesy photo
By Steve Breazeale
For the first time in the Challenger Division’s 23-year history, a Senior team will take the field at Vista Hermosa Sports Park as part of the San Clemente Little League Opening Day festivities on February 23.
The Challenger Division, which was established in 1989, is a separate division of San Clemente Little League that has enabled boys and girls with physical and mental challenges to play the sport of baseball.
In years past there has always been a Junior team of the Challenger Division but this year, due to growing numbers, there will be a Senior squad for children 13 and older. The San Clemente Sr. Tritons will play their very first game against Newport Beach Bull Sharks on February 23. The San Clemente Jr. Tritons will play Lake Forest Jr. Angels the same day.
The Challenger Division is open to any boy or girl between the ages of four and 18, or anyone up to 22-years-old that is still enrolled in a high school program, who face a physical or mental challenge. No local residency is required and it is free to all players.
Both the Junior and Senior teams will play 10 games this season, with five being played at home and five on the road.
For those wishing to enroll their child in the Challenger Division, visit the league’s website at www.sclittleleague.com and click on the ‘Challenger’ link. Email the completed form to Mark Neidl at aerojets@cox.net.