The excitement of Opening Day takes on special meaning as Challenger Baseball of Broward County launches another season at the Margate Sports Complex. For more than three decades, the program has created an inclusive baseball experience for children and young adults with special needs, giving players ages 5 to 25 the chance to swing, field, and run the bases in a supportive environment.
Founded and led by longtime organizer Randy Hibshman, Challenger Baseball has been a fixture in Broward County for 35 years, growing to include more than 200 players across multiple cities. “Every player has the opportunity to participate—there are no outs, no strikes, just fun,” Hibshman said. “The goal is to make every child feel like an all-star.” The league’s success stems from the dedication of coaches, volunteers, and sponsors who ensure the program remains free for participating families.
Games are held on Sunday afternoons from late February through mid-May, with teams based in Margate, Coral Springs, Parkland, Tamarac, Sunrise, Weston, and Pembroke Pines. In Margate, the Challenger/Champion Division operates through Margate Baseball & Softball, Inc., which hosts games at the Margate Sports Complex at 1695 Banks Road. Families can look forward to a welcoming, community-driven atmosphere where inclusion, teamwork, and joy take center stage.
Margate’s team, the G-Rays, continues to embody that spirit of unity. The local division began in the city about five years ago, with strong support from city officials, the mayor, commissioners, and park staff. Games are now played at Vinson Park, where families and volunteers gather each Sunday from 3:30 to 5:15 p.m. “Margate has been incredibly supportive of our program,” Hibshman said. “We are greatly indebted to the city for everything they do.”
Challenger Baseball stands apart for its simplicity and heart. Volunteers receive minimal formal training, just a reminder to help each child as needed and encourage independence wherever possible. Sometimes that means helping a player pick up a ground ball or gently pushing a wheelchair around the bases. The league uses a softer ball for safety, and coaches pitch from close range to ensure every batter gets a hit. There are no outs or strikes, only runs, smiles, and high-fives.
The league operates two divisions: Juniors for ages 5–10 and Seniors for ages 11 and older. Many players, including Hibshman’s own son, have grown up with the program. “My son started when he was 10 years old. He’s now 45 and still playing for the G-Rays,” Hibshman shared. “Watching these kids cross home plate and seeing their faces light up is the best part of every game.”
Community partnerships and sponsorships have made the program thrive. With the help of generous supporters, Challenger Baseball provides uniforms, equipment, photos, trophies, and even hosts Opening and Closing Day celebrations, along with a special trip to a Miami Marlins game. The league’s partnership with the Marlins has been especially rewarding, with team mascot Billy the Marlin making regular appearances on Opening Day.
Registration for the upcoming season opens November 1 at challengerbaseballofbroward.com. All special needs children and young adults ages 5 to 25 are welcome to join. Families, sponsors, and volunteers, whether coaches or cheerleaders are invited to be part of this unforgettable experience.
“Everyone in the community is welcome to come watch our games,” Hibshman said. “It’s a heartwarming experience that reminds you what sports are really about.”
For more information, families can contact Challenger Baseball of Broward County at 954-345-9329 or visit challengerbaseballofbroward.com. Whether cheering from the stands or volunteering on the field, Broward residents are invited to celebrate another season where every player truly wins.