Challenger Division


The Little League Challenger program is for kids with special needs such as autism, Down Syndrome, mental retardation, visual impairments, hearing impairments, and other health or medical issues. We accept all players from ages 5 through young adult.

There are about 20 Challenger teams total on the west side of the San Francisco Bay. Games are mostly on Sunday afternoons.  Because not every local Little League has a Challenger team, players can participate beyond traditional home league boundaries.

Sunnyvale Metro hosts one of several Challenger teams within District 44, joining others from Moreland, Sunnyvale Southern (2 teams), and Cupertino National, with more teams being planned (including Santa Clara).

BASIC GAME RULES: In a Challenger game, each player gets a chance at bat. Usually two innings are played. Little League recommends that no score be kept during Challenger games.

One of the benefits in the Challenger Division is that it encourages the use of "buddies" for the Challenger players. The buddies assist the Challenger players on the field but, whenever possible, encourage the players to bat and make plays themselves. However, the buddy is always nearby to help when needed.

If you want to sign up your child up or if you wish to start a new Challenger team, please send email to challenger@sunnyvalemetro.org.