Fifth Annual 2010 World Challenger Jamboree Brings Smiles, Makes Memories for More Than 1,500 Little Leaguers
Sunday, May 30, 2010
The fifth annual Little League World Challenger Jamboree was recently held at the Azalea Little League Complex in Norfolk, Va.
The Jamboree welcomed nearly 100 teams representing 10 U.S. states. States represented at the jamboree for the first time included Ohio and Michigan. The weekend-long event included games, tours, picnics and other special events.
“The 2010 World Challenger Jamboree was once again a great success,” Sam Ranck, Director of the Little League Challenger Division, said. “We were very pleased to welcome several leagues to the Jamboree for the first time, as well as to welcome back many leagues that attend the Jamboree every year.”
A world-wide Challenger Division jamboree was the concept of Jake Hardison, former Virginia State Coordinator and District 8 Administrator. Mr. Hardison currently serves as Director of the Little League World Challenger Jamboree. A dedicated supporter and longtime proponent of the Challenger Division, Mr. Hardison began the “Challenger Tournament and Fun Weekend” in 1992, featuring 16 teams. The inaugural jamboree in 2005 was an expansion of the Challenger weekend, and drew nearly 100 teams from throughout the United States. Last year, nearly 100 teams from throughout the United States and several other countries participated in the Jamboree.
“The hard work and dedication of Mr. Hardison and his staff have made the Jamboree experience available to thousands of children since 1992,” Mr. Ranck, who attended the event, said. “Their continued efforts will ensure that the World Challenger Jamboree will continue to impact the lives of many children for years to come.”
In 1989, Little League launched its Challenger Division to provide children with disabilities the opportunity to enjoy and participate in the game of baseball. Disabled children from the ages of 5-18 are eligible to participate. Challenger baseball features “buddies” who help their partners by assisting the players when needed.
To view pictures and other information from this year’s Worldwide Challenger Jamboree, visit: http://www.LittleLeague.org/media/challenger.htm or www.facebook.com/LittleLeagueChallenger. For more information on the Little League Challenger Division, contact Mr. Ranck at, 570-326-1921 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, ext. 254; or e-mail [email protected].
In 2009, more than 1,950 teams and nearly 30,000 children participated in the Little League Challenger Division.
The 2010 World Challenger Jamboree was hosted by the Azalea Little League Complex in
The 2010 World Challenger Jamboree was hosted by the Azalea Little League Complex in Norfolk, Va. Nearly 100 teams representing 10 U.S. states participated in the annual event.