Good Sports: Challenger Baseball

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Baseball is often referred to as America's Pastime and a local league is providing the opportunity for all to enjoy the game.

"There's an awesome feeling when you give a kid a chance to play a game that before he was only able to watch from the other side of the fence," said California District 10 Little League Administrator Mike Gentry.

Mission accomplished for this central valley little league baseball program.

"This is a challenger division within the division 10 little league baseball, it caters to kids with physical and mental disabilities no matter how slight or severe," said team mom Lisa Sesto.

Created 3 years ago locally, the Challenger Division provides more than just an opportunity to play baseball.

"I guarantee if you speak to any parent here they are going to tell you they've seen a growth in their child, as far as confidence, social, emotional well-being, outgoing and the friendships you make are everlasting," said Madera National Little League Manager Fernando Santoyo.

The league has been so successful it was chosen to play in an exhibition game at the upcoming Little League Intermediate World Series in Livermore later this summer. The big crowd will get to witness what those involved with the league see every day.

"These games are more exciting than your regular little league games by far, this just warms your heart," said Sesto.

Gentry added, "When you have this kind of experience with one of these players they understand what loving this game is because these kids just love this game."

For more information on the Challenger Division visit: http://www.cadistrict10.com/

Or Contact Mike Gentry: m_gentry99@cadistrict10.com