Beyond the Bases: Building Confidence Through Challenger Baseball at 17 Wing

By Martin Zeilig

At 17 Wing, a special kind of baseball is played—a game where the roar of encouragement means just as much as the crack of the bat. It’s Challenger Baseball, a program designed to empower children, youth, and adults with physical and cognitive disabilities, bringing them the joy of sport while teaching invaluable life skills.

Challenger Baseball at 17 Wing

Two years ago, Colleen, the former head of Community Recreation at 17 Wing, had a vision: to start up Challenger Baseball on the base. She knew this initiative needed a coach with military experience, and thanks to the efforts of Laura Mosienko, PSP/CFMWS administrative assistant Community Recreation, Bruce Bain, an ex-CAF member stationed at CFB Shilo, was recruited. He soon realized he needed an assistant, and as fate would have it, Mosienko stepped up.

Together, they embarked on a journey that made 17 Wing home to the only Challenger Baseball team on a military base in Canada.

Challenger Baseball

A Game Like No Other

“Challenger Baseball is more than just a game—it’s an adaptive program that teaches teamwork, communication, resiliency, inclusion, and courage,” Mr. Bain says. “Every player, regardless of their abilities, is given the chance to succeed on the field.”

The league operates on a simple but profound principle: athletes always come first. To ensure that, Challenger Baseball relies on a unique support system—Buddies, Mr. Bain notes.

Buddies are mentors, role models, and passionate supporters of the players.

“Their job is to provide encouragement, help their teammates achieve personal goals, and make sure the experience is as enjoyable and safe as possible,” Ms. Mosienko says.

Each Buddy takes their role seriously, adapting their assistance to individual needs—whether that means helping a player hold a bat, guiding them to first base, or ensuring their safety as they navigate the diamond, she explains.

Challenger Baseball

More Than Just a Sport

The inclusivity of Challenger Baseball extends beyond the players. Adults can join, too—anyone with a cognitive or physical disability is welcome to step up to the plate. With modified equipment such as sponge balls and adjustable batting apparatuses for players in wheelchairs, every participant can find a way to engage in the game, Bains adds.

Games are played within the diamond rather than the outfield, ensuring accessibility. If a player struggles to hit a pitched ball, they use a tee on a stand. Some wheelchairs are equipped with a lever mechanism, allowing players to swing the bat without requiring physical movement.

“We accommodate every need,” Bruce explains, emphasizing that the program is built on adaptability and encouragement.

The 17 Wing Challenger team consists of nine players, aged 9-15. While the maximum number per team is 12, smaller rosters allow for focused mentorship and skill development. Each game lasts about an hour, incorporating warm-ups and cool-downs.

Building a Community Through Baseball

The Challenger Baseball program is supported by the Jays Care Foundation, which provides funding, and some baseball equipment, Mr.  Bain says.

The foundation also organizes best-in-class training for volunteers, ensuring that coaches are well-equipped to foster an inclusive environment.

With seven Challenger teams active in Winnipeg, the league offers players opportunities to compete and grow. While 17 Wing’s team doesn’t play against every squad, the matchups they do have bring players together in a shared love for the game.

For Laura, Challenger Baseball has a deeply personal meaning. Both of her children—her 12-year-old and her 10-year-old—are autistic, and, as she says, “being part of this team has given them an outlet to engage with others” through a sport she adores.

“This is getting them out there,” she says. “They’re connecting with other children in a way that builds confidence.”

Bruce echoes this sentiment.

“There’s nothing quite like seeing the smiles on these kids’ faces,” he says.

Challenger Baseball

More Than a Season—A Lifelong Impact

The Challenger Baseball season kicks off on May 3 and runs until June 14, culminating in a final game at the 17 Wing ball field. The wind-up event takes place at Blue Cross  Park, where the professional Winnipeg Goldeyes baseball team plays, complete with hot dogs and celebrations.

“Throughout the season, parents play an integral role, remaining in the stands or assisting their children on the field,” Bruce says.

Participation for coaches and buddies in Challenger Baseball also requires police clearance from the Winnipeg Police Service, ensuring a secure environment for all involved.

Beyond military ranks and civilian status, Challenger Baseball fosters a space where everyone—regardless of ability—can unite through sport.

“It’s amazing to see military and civilian kids playing together,” Bruce says. “This program gives me a sense of fulfillment that’s hard to put into words.”

For Laura and Bruce, Challenger Baseball is more than just a game—it’s a legacy of inclusion, perseverance, and joy, where every player finds their moment to shine.

For further information, contact Laura Mosienko at email: mosienko.laura@cfmws.com

Telephone:204-833-2500 ext. 5976