SM Baseball Teams Up with Adaptive Baseball Program

Santa Margarita baseball partnered with Little League's Challenger Division for an unforgettable day of baseball and fun in its purest form. The Little League Challenger Division is an adaptive baseball program for individuals with physical and intellectual challenges. The program accommodates players ages four through 18 – and older if they’re still in school. SM baseball boys each paired up with a Challenger buddy to provide encouragement and assistance during the game. The day included a post-game barbecue and lots of smiles.

“I hit the Buddy jackpot,” said J.T. Lopez ’24.

After communicating nonverbally with his hearing-impaired Buddy throughout the game, her mother said she had repeatedly signed, “You’re the best,” to Lopez.

“The Buddies were so cool, kind and gentle, the music was entertaining, and our kiddos enjoyed the food! This was the first time playing for a lot of our little guys and they loved it,” said Wendy Sorensen Junior Angels coach for Ladera Little League.

SM Baseball participates in this unique outreach program annually. This year four Challenger teams participated, totaling about 40 kids. SMCHS Head Baseball Coach Chris Malec '01 encouraged all families to attend and support the event and said,

“It is one of the most rewarding days of the year. It's baseball at its purest. You couldn't ask for a better day."

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