Fun and flexibility were the name of the game Sunday during the Challenger game where Bradford and Warren shared the field. After Bradford’s Saturday game was rained out, Sunday’s two-inning game ended in a tied score, but the thrill of being out under a sunny sky and enjoying the baseball experience was a success.

The balls are soft and brightly colored. A big part of the batting experience is choosing the right color for some players. Some hit from a tee while others opted for a live pitcher, who lobbed the ball gently with reminders to keep their eye on the ball and encouragement with

Nick Campogiani and father Jason run to first for the Bradford Challengers during Sunday’s game against Warren. (Era photo by Wade Aiken)

each swing and miss.

During this game, equipment and safety sometimes have to take a backseat to sensory considerations. Most batters wear helmets, but some choose to skip that protection due to the overwhelm experienced when something puts pressure on their ears.

Each player has a helper, an effort that takes months of planning to pull off. Both Bradford coach Erin Bridge and Warren coach Nick King agree that the games wouldn’t be an option without the volunteers who are willing to give their time and energy to help put the experience together.

Each batter has a buddy to run with them – and sometimes redirect them when they decide they would rather pursue the ball they hit than run to first. Meanwhile, out in the field, sometimes the focus is less on the batter and more on the freedom of the wide open space. However, players are enjoying themselves and that’s ultimately what parents, coaches and volunteers want to see.

Not only are helpers needed on the field, but other volunteers man the concession stand, making sure drinks and food are available during the game.

The hour trip from Warren meant only half of the Warren team was in attendance, but enough Bradford players were on hand to even up the teams. The goal is to give players the experience and keep things even to keep the game going.

For each team, there is a chance at bat and time spent in the outfield. While players are rotating through their at bat for one team, the other team rotates through the outfield as well, seeing the game from various positions and seeing how it works to field the ball as the stronger hitters send it deep.

The proof that the experience is a success reflects in the numbers: each year the teams grow and more parents are reaching out to have their children participate.

Jim “Lefty” Miller, along with his canine companion Fred, threw the first pitch. Miller had his life changed by an accident 38 years ago but he doesn’t let that stop him and Fred. He still finds joy in things he loves, including baseball.

The Bradford Area Challengers noted they are grateful to their sponsors, from the Homerun Sponsor Dreambuilders Plus, Inc., to the Triple Sponsors: First Presbyterian Church, Board of Deacons, Athena Nutrition, Bradford Community Pride Lions Club and Stefani Gallagher. They also expressed gratitude to Harry Solarek for announcing and Miller for throwing the first pitch.

The team is also grateful for the support of Bradford Regional Little League and to Pitt-Bradford for the use of the field.