ACBA Champions League

ACBA Champions League Special needs baseball PONY Baseball and Softball is proud to announce the formation of a new league, the Champions League. The "Buddies" learn just as much.

The newest league in the PONY family is for children with special needs. It was unanimously adopted at the PONY Baseball and Softball International Board of Directors on October 13, 2009. We are excited to bring this great opportunity to our area in 2015! Champion League is a non-competitive baseball league for boys and girls with special needs. Each athlete is paired with a “Buddy” to assist the

player as needed. These buddies will assist their player catch, field, and throw; and as necessary, get around the bases. These buddies are traditional participants of baseball and softball, family or community members. With the help of a special "buddy" to help swing a bat, round the bases or catch a ball, ballplayers are able to experience the thrills of the game. All participants between the ages of 4 and 23 years old, or who remain in a school setting, with special needs that would prevent them from playing in a traditional baseball or softball program. Participants will be allowed to participate by the level of ability regardless of their age. The baseball games may be played as t-ball games, or coach pitch with everyone getting a chance to bat. The games consist of two innings allowing each child to bat per inning. Each player on the roster shall bat each inning and shall play defensively each inning. The inning shall end when the roster has batted through. There will be no outs based on strikes, and no three outs to end the inning. The league fosters friendships and breaks down barriers. Champion League provides an opportunity like no other for children with special needs that would like to play baseball. This league is unique in that it allows the children to learn about baseball and the fundamentals alongside their peer buddies. Team sports provide opportunities for building social skills, self esteem, and peer relationships. The players are not the only ones who win here. They see enthusiasm, determination, tolerance, joy, and unconditional love during every game. Everyone involved wins here. Champion League is designed to foster confidence and self-esteem, make memories and have fun. An emotionally rewarding experience for all, "buddies" achieve satisfaction from their involvement while the athletes benefit from the opportunity to participate in organized sports,

06/22/2026

Our very own Harry Caray, Sam, joined us at our games this past weekend! We are so glad to have him back! His love of baseball, announcing, and joy makes the game of baseball just that much sweeter!

One of our teammates, Cris, is recovering from surgery. He will be out the whole season. Taco John’s in Bourbonnais is d...
06/21/2026

One of our teammates, Cris, is recovering from surgery. He will be out the whole season. Taco John’s in Bourbonnais is doing a fundraiser night for him! Please stop by if you can!

Part 2 of our third week!
06/21/2026

Part 2 of our third week!

Third week down, one more to go!
06/21/2026

Third week down, one more to go!

Game day tomorrow!June 20th8 a.m.Giraffes vs. Sharks 9 a.m. Bluegills vs. OttersAt the softball field for Bishop Mac!Rem...
06/19/2026

Game day tomorrow!

June 20th
8 a.m.
Giraffes vs. Sharks
9 a.m.
Bluegills vs. Otters

At the softball field for Bishop Mac!

Remember - if your child didn’t take a photo last week, meet Chelsea Stanhibel near the home dugout to take their pic!

All orders for our super fan tshirts will be under the tent. And more shirts will be there to purchase!

Also Lovealatte.Coffee will be at our games. Support a local business and all our fellow teammates that also work there!

We are excited to see everyone for week three of our season!

Thank you The Daily Journal!
06/17/2026

Thank you The Daily Journal!

Every Saturday in June, the softball field at Bishop McNamara hosts the All-City Baseball Association Champions League, a four-team league for players ages 4-23 with physical and mental disabilities.

06/17/2026

If you don’t get a Daily-Journal newspaper, maybe go get one today! There is also an online gallery on their website 👀

We loved being able to play outside on the field this past Saturday!
06/16/2026

We loved being able to play outside on the field this past Saturday!

Address

1230 N Convent St Ste F
Bourbonnais, IL
60914

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