The Cochrane Challengers are a local group made for children and adults who have difficulties participating in regular sports leagues. Challengers members meet up weekly to exercise, socialize, and support each other in having fun.
The group was created over 30 years ago, and has since provided an opportunity for physically and developmentally challenged children, teens or adults to participate in sports.
“The group is for children and adults with all types of disabilities and you know we want to promote some exercise, but mostly socialization and a chance to participate in sports,” Said Challengers president Bernadette Pedersen.
Around 40 group members are involved, and the group meets up weekly to bowl in the winter, and to play baseball in the spring. They also hold social events throughout the year, such as movie nights, dances, potlucks and a monthly wing night for adults.
This club had a modest beginning, Pedersen said.
“They just actually started playing baseball with themselves and their family, and eventually it grew.”
The Challengers are now a non-for profit society run by parents, which is funded by the help of sponsors like the Cochrane Activettes Club, the Cochrane Lions Club, the Cochrane Minor Baseball Association, and the Blue Jays Care foundation.
In September, Challengers members must simply pay a one dollar membership fee to join for the year, and the only other payments go directly towards bowling or baseball activity costs.
“It's just so great to have these Challengers be able to participate, and their enthusiasm is amazing,” said Pedersen.
With winter bowling just around the corner, and the annual membership sign up approaching in September, now is the time for anybody who’s interested in joining the Challengers to contact [email protected].
The Cochrane Challengers provides a great opportunity for those who have difficulties competing in regular sport, but still want to engage in activity and socialize with others.
