History

In 1999, the Challenger League baseball program was introduced to the Wren community, through the Wren Youth Association, serving 24 children in its first year. During the next seven years the program grew to serve as many as 64 children throughout the Upstate. Limited by the availability of fields and the expressed need by parents to have more recreational activities for their children, the decision was made to form a separate organization.

In 2006, Upstate Challenger Sports was formed. Upstate Challenger Sports is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization that provides recreational opportunities for individuals with mental, physical or developmental disabilities ages 5 and up. With assistance from volunteer “buddies”, players are able to participate in activities that promote teamwork, develop self-esteem and allow individuals to be more like their peers. Participants are from all over the Upstate including Anderson, Greenville, Laurens, Oconee and Pickens counties.

Board of Directors : 2010

Steve Finlen, President
Mike Lopez, Secretary
Jeff Godsey, Treasurer
Karen Clark 

Jesse Hunsinger

Michael White
 

 

Location:

Upstate Challenger Sports currently uses the facilities at Piedmont Presbyterian Church to conduct most of our activities. We are grateful to the church for their generosity. Piedmont Presbyterian Church is located at 4 Academy Street in Piedmont. This is off Hwy. 86, approximately 2 miles from Interstate 85 or 1 mile from Highway 20. This central location is convenient for our families who travel from all over the Upstate area.

Our Mailing Address Is: 

3504-203 Highway 153
Greenville, SC 29611

Dreams:

Upstate Challenger Sports has a dream! To build a multi-purpose recreational complex to host a variety of opportunities for children and young adults who have mental, physical or developmental disabilities. These individuals need a place where they are free to be themselves in an environment that caters to their needs and abilities. We invite you to help us imagine the possibilities!