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.highschoolchallengerleague.com
Media Liaison - Grant
Coordinator - Teacher
Southern Regional School
District
