Where are the games played?
From Route 42 (John Wayland
Highway): John Wayland Highway becomes Main Street as you enter
Bridgewater. Turn left onto Mt. Crawford Avenue (the first left
after you pass Dairy Queen). The entrance to Oakdale Park is on
the left. Field 2 is the second field on the left.
How long does a game last?
In most games, two full innings are played. All players bat each inning and play in the field. Game length is approximately 60-75 minutes.
What happens during a practice?
Each team will have one practice before we begin the game schedule. Practices are planned to help the athletes become familiar with the procedures of hitting, throwing a ball, and running the bases. When the players arrive, they will be directed to one of these activities and introduced to an adult who will assist them. Buddies will be present for the practices if their schedules allow and players from the Bridgewater College baseball and softball teams and the Turner Ashby softball team may be assisting. Feel free to stay close to your child until he or she feels comfortable. We encourage you to share information with the buddy or other adult that will help them in assisting your child.
Why is it important to arrive early?
Introductions begin at the scheduled game time and play follows immediately. We encourage you to arrive at the ballpark at least 10 minutes before the game to allow your child some transition and "warmup" time. As soon as your family arrives, your child should enter the field area and check in with one of the coaches. If your child’s buddy is not present, a coach will assign another adult to assist him or her during warmups. The players will practice throwing or running the bases until they are called to the dugouts for introductions.
What if my child cannot hit a thrown baseball?
One of the goals of the Challenger program is to be as flexible as possible in order to make the experience a positive one for each player. Most of the athletes in the junior (younger) division hit the ball from a tee when batting; the majority of the senior players hit pitches thrown by an adult. However, we try to accommodate to each child’s skill level and encourage players to bat in the way they feel most comfortable. All players bat every inning, so in the interest of time, we must limit the number of pitches thrown to a batter. If a player is not being successful, the umpire will encourage him or her to hit from the tee. Players whose arm or hand strength prevents them from holding a bat will use a special batting device that enables them to hit independently. They will be introduced to this device during preseason practices.
What if
there are times my child does not want to participate?
As mentioned previously, we try to be very flexible and there is never pressure for your child to participate. We realize there are times when children are tired or upset and we want you to feel comfortable making the decision about your child’s level of participation. Please let your coaches and buddy know how they can be helpful in these situations—when to be encouraging and when to back off.
How will I know when games
are rained out?
Cancellation announcements will be made in the following ways:
1. An email will be sent to all families
who included an email address on the registration form.
2. A notice
will be posted on the Bridgewater Challenger web site:
http://coe.jmu.edu/hutchisl
3. WSVA radio (550AM) will be contacted.