Welcome To Buckhead Baseball

Buddy Baseball, formerly known as Challenger Baseball is a program that enables children with disabilities to play the wonderful game of baseball. Coached by David Barron, John Griner and Lee Hicks, our players are assisted by selected 12 year olds from the Majors Program.  The players are children ages 5-18 who, while learning to enjoy America’s favorite pastime, develop their athletic skills, hitting, catching and running (or driving their wheelchair).  Games are Saturday mornings; home field is Frankie Allen Park – Majors Field.  Away games are played at NYO, Murphy Candler Park, Sandy Springs (Morgan Falls) and Ocee Park.   Uniforms are provided.

The program serves children of all abilities with a diverse range of disabilities, including cerebral palsy, autism spectrum disorders and downs syndrome as well as children who are verbal and non-verbal just to name a few.  Players and buddies develop a strong bond both on and off the field.  The season begins with a kickoff party where players and buddy families are introduced to one another.  Buddies are expected to attend each game with their player to facilitate their participation.   To many of our players, this program is a highlight of their year.

The first pitch of Opening Day at Buckhead is thrown by a Buddy Player.   The season consists of 6 games the last of which is followed by awards and a trophy ceremony.  Often players attend their buddy’s games to help cheer them on as well.  The season is capped of by Challenger Day at the Atlanta Braves, June 3rd, 2009 which includes a parade on the field, game and an evening of fun.

How to become a Buddy -

All major players will receive an email invitation from Coach David Barron on February 12th, 2009.  Those who respond are included on a first come, first serve basis.  Buddies are typically assigned to players 1:1 however some of our players benefit from having 2 buddies.

How to become a Player -

Contact Coach Barron to enroll, a packet of information will be sent to you with a medical release form as well request for uniform size.

Important Dates -

February 12th - Email invitation to Buddies
February 28th, 2010 - Kickoff Party
March 20, 2010 - Opening Day
June 1st, 2010 - Challenger Day at the Braves

Game Dates -

March 20th
March 27th
April 17th
April 24th
May 1st
May 8th
May 15th End of Season Party

For more information, please feel free to contact Coach David Barron, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it   or call home: 404-814-9597 or cell: 770-330-7449.