Facebook
Google
Are you ready to be Challenged?
On Sunday, September 14th the Ocean / Monmouth County Challenger Sports League will commence. The league was created to provide social and recreational opportunities for children with mental and physical handicaps outside of school. Southern Regional is one of 13 schools districts in Ocean County who have signed up to participate in the Challenger League. Teams will play either Challenger Soccer games or Challenger Flag Football. Through various donations and fund-raising efforts, the first year of involvement in the league will be funded by the Ocean County Council PTA, organizers of the league. This has included coaches, uniforms and supplies. “We are providing recreational opportunities while also providing socialization opportunities with non-disabled peers through mentorship and buddies” said Joe DiPietro, Autistic Program Coordinator for Southern Regional High School and Lead Commissioner for the Challenger League.
Southern Regional will open their Varsity Football season on Friday, September 12th against Pinelands Regional. However, two days later on Sunday, September 14th at 10:00am, the Challenger League will take to the stadium field for a Southern vs. Pinelands flag football match-up. “There is something to be said about our Varsity athletes competing two days prior with Pinelands. The same football team members will take to the field in a different role, that of “buddy.” These non-disabled peers will be mentors, friends and assistant coaches to the Challenger athletes with disabilities,” said DiPietro .
If you
would like more information about the league, or to check the schedules of the
participating teams please visit our site:
www.
Carolyn S. Placa
Media Liaison - Grant Coordinator - Teacher
Southern Regional School District
600 North Main Street
Manahawkin, NJ 08050
609-597-9481 ext. 2031
