The Little League Challengers Division is a program for people ages 4 to 18 with a physical or intellectual challenge that prevents them from participating in a traditional league. 

The Fort Worth division was initially founded by Dina Simpson in 2008, but it dissolved after the pandemic due to the leaders being unable to continue running it. In 2021, Paschal senior Haley Hooper began the process of restarting the league. 

“I contacted the current Little League president, and he agreed to allow us to have the league at the ULL field,” says Hooper. “I met with Dina Simpson, occupational therapists, and many other professionals to help start the league.”

They contacted businesses to sponsor them and raised over 2,000 dollars, which they used to buy T-shirts and jerseys for players and volunteers. After more careful planning, they held their first season. They had six one-hour games from March to May 2023, and over 30 players participated. 

After the success of the Spring season, they held a Fall season from September to November, and thirty more kids joined. In addition to the six games, they had a Halloween carnival for the children and their families with games, snacks, hairspray, and face paint. They raised 3,000 dollars to buy more jerseys and personalized helmets for the players. 

“The league has touched so many families in the community and has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life,” Hooper says. “The players are so happy to be there, and it is such a joy to participate in it.” 

There are many ways that high school students can be involved in this program! Anyone of any age can volunteer, but children under twelve must volunteer with a parent. Volunteers are paired with a player and help run bases, play catch, and have fun. They are currently taking volunteers for a one-day winter clinic and the spring season from March to May. To volunteer, you can fill out a Google form that will be available soon.