Variety of Southern California

Over 40 very special athletes started 2013 with new back packs, bats, balls and uniforms thanks to Variety of Southern California’s support of the Pony Baseball “Champions” Division. Pony Baseball provides quality baseball experiences for children whose limitations make it difficult to participate on “mainstream” teams. The league is dedicated exclusively to providing children ages 3 through 15 the opportunity to learn, participate in and enjoy the wonderful sport of baseball.

The mission is to not only teach the game of baseball, but to instill in all players the ideals of sportsmanship, honesty, loyalty, courage and respect for authority. The Champions Division features players who are visually or hearing impaired, physically disabled, or mentally or emotionally challenged. The players are assisted by volunteer coaches and players from conventional teams who assist these players as “on field shadows” at every game.

These games contribute to the physical, cognitive, emotional and social well-being of players with disabilities, thereby positively impacting their life skills. Thanks to a grant from Variety of Southern California, this very special league was able to expand this concept to other communities in SoCal to help even more kids with disabilities experience the “crack of the bat and the roar of the crowd”.