Vancouver Canadians break ground on first fully accessible field

Today, construction began on the first baseball field in British Columbia specifically designed to give full access to children with physical disabilities and cognitive challenges. The project was headed by the Canadians, in partnership with the BC Challenger Baseball Program, Variety – The Children’s Charity, Jays Cares Foundation and the Vancouver Board Of Parks and Recreation.

“Variety is thrilled to be the title partner in this initiative,” said Dave McConachie, Interim Executive Director at Variety – The Children’s Charity in a statement. “We believe children who have special needs are champions, capable of achieving remarkable little victories. We look forward to seeing more kids benefit from this excellent program, and encourage more families to reach out to us if they think we can help.”

Image: Vancouver Canadians

Dubbed the “Challenger Baseball Field,” the facility is being created to provide children of all kinds with the ability to join, and participate, in team sports, through the Challenger Baseball Program. Many traditional facilities have been built without consideration for people with mobility issues, making it difficult for some people to navigate the steep stairs and narrow passages.

“The Vancouver Canadians are proud to be a part of this monumental endeavour”, said Andy Dunn, president of the Vancouver Canadians. “This offers an amazing and much needed opportunity for these special athletes. The BC Challenger Baseball program will finally have a permanent field to call home, and we’re delighted to be a part of it.”

The Challenger Baseball Field is expected to be finished next spring.