A League of Their Own
By Philly Bubaris
The Challenger Division is a bowling league comprised of individuals with varied disabilities. The young people get together at Smithtown Lanes in Smithtown every Wednesday at 6 pm. Together they enjoy a couple of games of bowling and some social time with friends.
Teri Mangione founded the league ten years ago because she felt there were no activities for her son who has disabilities. When the program began, there were only five participants and now, there are about 40 participants ranging from the age of five to age twenty-two.
Both parents and bowlers benefit from the program. For parents it’s the opportunity to see their children enjoying themselves. “I have seen a change in my daughter Amanda since going to this program,” said Cathy Levine, whose daughter has cerebral palsy. “It has made her aware of every body else having problems as well.”
Mangione hopes to continue expanding and to add more activities. She is considering a dance or a game night. “The goal for the program is for these kids to have some social events, because everything that they are doing is done with a parent,” Mangione said. “So once they get together here, this gives them the freedom to have somewhat of a normal life.”
The league’s sport will change to baseball for the sunny weather.
For more information about The Challenger Division contact Teri Mangione at avon227@optonline.net