Challenged children find acceptance on Little League field
Disability does not mean inability. No one knows that better than the children and volunteers of the Habersham Challenger League.
The Challenger League is a division of Habersham County Little League, formed for children who have a physical or mental disability. There is no fee for players to participate in the league.
“We see our children as differently-abled. There is nothing they can’t do!” -Rhonda Stamey
What makes the Challenger League so special, however, is that the kids realize the truth that their disability doesn’t define them. As the old saying goes, “Once we accept our limits, we go beyond them.” There’s no denying the impact the league has had on the kids themselves, their families and everyone else involved, from the “buddies” to the community of Habersham County.
“Anyone who spends time watching the kids play ball walks away humbled,” states Challenger League Coordinator Rhonda Stamey. “They are able to do the same things a typical child does; they just do it differently and have to work a lot harder for it.”
Josh Harkins, a parent of a Challenger League kid, echoes Stamey.
“The children are only as limited as we allow them to be,” adds Harkins, whose eight-year-old son Dennis has played in the league since he was four years old.
No ‘dis’ in their ability
The league accommodates all types of special needs. It is an avenue for children, who for various reasons, can’t compete against typical children in HCLL. Players consist of those in wheelchairs, players with autism, players with ADHD and many others who are affected to an extent they wouldn’t be able to compete otherwise. Regardless, there’s one constant truth in how the league makes players, volunteers and the community feel.
“The thing that most kids love is that their disability doesn’t matter,” adds Stamey. “Here, no one notices they are different. The word disability implies that there is something you’re not able to do – as a special-needs parent, we see our children as differently-abled. There is nothing they can’t do!”
Comfort level determines the hitting approach of the players. Children have the option to hit off a tee or a pitched ball, including from a buddy if they so desire.
Being a buddy means helping the players during the games by protecting them from getting hurt, making sure the kids have fun and even pitching if the child prefers a buddy throw to them. Pushing wheelchairs, helping players swing the bat, directing the kids around the bases, and even running with them – whatever it takes to make it a great experience for the kids – are ways to be a part of the Challenger League.
“We are always needing buddies for our games,” states Stamey. “In the past we’ve had church groups, other baseball teams and even firemen volunteer as buddies.”
There is an added reward in watching the kids play ball in the Challenger League – it allows others the chance to be able to put hardships in their lives into proper perspective.
“These kids make me and everyone else that watches them realize that things in our lives are not so tough after all,” says Stamey. “These kids battle every day of their life – some are literally fighting for their life! They are a blessing to everyone they meet.”
Become a buddy or sponsor
Getting involved can be as easy as volunteering to be a buddy. Stamey encourages buddies to be at least teenagers, as the responsibility is key. For those interested in getting involved, contact Stamey at 706-949-9775.
Leagues like the Challenger League and White County Heroes are set up to bring everyone together for a common cause.
“The Challenger League would have no limits if we could get more involved as citizens of Habersham County,” states Harkins.
Harkins believes that the Challenger League has the potential to add many more sports, such as basketball, soccer and other sports. Harkins feels that if more people witness the Challenger League, they too could see that potential.
Stamey also says the Challenger League is in need of sponsors in order to help pay for uniforms. The cost is $300 (tax-deductible) to sponsor a team; there are two teams in the league. Contact Stamey to sponsor a team.
Registration now open
Challenger League registration is now open for the spring season at hcll.org. Those interested can also contact Stamey (number above) or visit the Habersham Challenger League Facebook page.
“These children want what every other child wants,” says Stamey. “They want to be included and accepted. They want to have fun!”
