Babe Ruth League, Inc. believes that
every child has the right to participate in the games of
baseball and softball. We have always encouraged our
member leagues to accept all players regardless of their
physical or mental ability. The Bambino Buddy-Ball
Division was established for organizations who wish to
charter a league that encompasses players ages 5-20 who
are either physically and/or mentally challenged. This
division makes allowance for a “buddy” to help the
player swing a bat, round the bases, catch a ball, etc.
There are no restrictions to the age of the “buddy”. A
Bambino Buddy-Ball team may be comprised of players ages
5-20 and sometimes older. The Bambino Buddy-Ball
division is designed so that everyone has the
opportunity to have fun.
The Bambino Buddy-Ball Division allows our challenged or
special needs athletes to develop confidence and
positive self-esteem. It allows them to be part of
organized sports and assists with physical fitness as
well as their social skills. The joy and emotion you
experience when you put that first baseball uniform or
cap on a challenged child’s head is like no other. As
you can see, the Bambino Buddy-Ball Division is an
emotionally rewarding experience for everyone as it also
allows the “buddies” to feel good about helping their
challenged friends, while at the same time making it a
fun and memorable time for all.
Before the Bambino Buddy-Ball Division, our special
needs kids were often unable to enjoy the game of
baseball. Now, through the assistance of a special
buddy, they are able to enjoy the same thrills of
batting, hitting and throwing just like the other kids.
The Bambino Buddy-Ball Division opens up a whole new
world to our challenged kids – not only do they
experience the thrill of participating, they also get to
experience team play and camaraderie. Advancing the
personal development of any child through team
participation and kinship is an important step along the
road to success and happiness.
