DENISON, TX - Many kids start playing sports at a very early age. But when a child has a disability, sports aren't always an option. But now, the Denison Little League has a new division designed specifically for children who are mentally or physically challenged. Here’s Mystic Matthews with more about this new program.

The first challenger game hasn't even taken place, but the division has already received an overwhelming response from the little league community.

Coaches and kids are fired up and can't wait to play ball!

Millions of kids play little league ball all over the world. But this weekend in Denison, a new group of players will be taking the field for the first time.

“The challenger division is for physically and mentally challenged children," says Scott Marr, the Denison Little League President.

Little Leagues nationwide started the challenger division back in 1989. After years of thinking about it, Denison decided this was the year to make it happen.

Marr says he's excited about the new program. “It is the first time a lot of these kids will get to play on a team, first time for baseball and its going to be awesome."

Kade Snyder will be eleven years old Wednesday, and has never played baseball with a team before. Both he and his mom, Vija Kelly, are happy that now he has the opportunity.

Kade says, "I'm really excited about this weekend."

Kelly says, “It gives Kade a chance to play ball and practice and do the best he can. I am very excited for him to learn."

Kelly says it's a chance that most children who are mentally of physically challenged never get. “This is a new opportunity for children to get involved with sports and try to learn and be as normal as possible."

"This program has allowed them to be part of our baseball family,” says Marr.

And Marr says the entire Denison Little League Community is fired up about it. “It is a chance to get together, socialize and play the game of baseball."

Kelly says, “I'm very proud of my children and I'm glad each one has special opportunities to do different things."

Kade says, "Let’s play ball!"

The first challenger game is Sunday, May 4th at 2:00 PM at the Denison Little League field. Marr says if you have a child who'd like to play, you can register online at www.DenisonLL.com.