Challenger Sports runs entirely on the energy, patience, and heart of our volunteers. If you’ve ever wanted to make a real, visible difference in a child’s life — this is where it happens.
Every Sunday on the diamond and every weekend on the ice, our athletes show up ready to try their hardest. They need people in their corner: someone to field a grounder with them, skate alongside them on a wobbly first lap, or simply cheer like it’s the Stanley Cup when they make contact with the ball for the first time.
You don’t need to be an elite athlete. You don’t need a coaching certificate. You need to show up, be present, and care. Everything else we’ll teach you.
“The look on a kid’s face when they round third base for the first time — that’s why I keep coming back every Sunday.”
— Challenger Sports volunteer, Oakville
What You’ll Actually Be Doing
Volunteering with us is hands-on and active. On any given session you might be:
- Skating alongside an athlete who’s finding their footing on ice for the first time
- Serving up pitches or rolling grounders during batting practice
- Helping a player get their helmet on and reminding them where to run after they hit
- Celebrating a goal, a caught fly ball, or a lap around the rink with genuine enthusiasm
- Providing one-on-one support to an athlete who benefits from extra guidance
- Helping set up equipment before the session and packing down after
No two sessions are identical. Our athletes surprise us constantly — with their determination, their humour, and the milestones they hit when you least expect it.
Who We’re Looking For
We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds and experience levels. Our programs are a great fit if you are:
- A high school student looking to complete community service hours
- A university or college student studying kinesiology, education, social work, or a related field
- A parent, sibling, or family member of a current athlete who wants to give back
- A retired or working adult with a few hours free on weekends
- A sports enthusiast who wants to share the game they love
- Anyone who believes every child deserves access to sport
Volunteers must be comfortable working with children and youth with disabilities. Prior experience is an asset but not required, we provide orientation and ongoing support. A valid Police Record Check (Vulnerable Sector) is required and can be arranged through your local police service.
Volunteer Opportunities by Program
⚾ Challenger Baseball
When: Sunday afternoons throughout the spring and summer season
Where: Cornwall Diamonds & Neyagawa Diamonds, Oakville
Volunteer roles include on-field buddies (paired one-on-one with an athlete), base coaches, batting practice helpers, and general program assistants. Baseball knowledge is helpful but not required.
⛸️ Skating & Shinny Hockey
When: Sundays 3:00–4:00pm, October through March
Where: Milton Sports Centre, 605 Santa Maria Blvd, Milton
Skate volunteers assist athletes on the ice — helping with balance, teaching basic skating skills, and making the session fun and safe. You must be comfortable on skates. Hockey skills are a bonus for the shinny side of the ice.
🏒 Challenger Hockey League
When: Saturdays at 5:15pm (season schedule available upon request)
Where: Sixteen Mile Sports Complex, 3070 Neyagawa Blvd, Oakville
In partnership with the Oakville Rangers Hockey Club, the Challenger Hockey League welcomes volunteers with hockey experience who can help with skills development, drills, and game-day support. Skating ability required.
What to Expect When You Sign Up
- Step 1 — Get in touch. Fill out the contact form and let us know which program interests you and your availability.
- Step 2 — Orientation. We’ll walk you through the program, introduce you to the team, and answer any questions you have about working with our athletes.
- Step 3 — Police Record Check. We’ll provide guidance on obtaining a Vulnerable Sector Check if you don’t already have one.
- Step 4 — Show up. Come to your first session, meet the athletes, and dive in. Most volunteers tell us they felt at home by the end of the first hour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need experience working with kids with disabilities?
No. Many of our most valued volunteers came in with zero experience and learned everything on the job. We’ll match you with athletes whose needs suit your comfort level and give you all the support you need.
How often do I need to commit?
There’s no minimum requirement, but consistent volunteers make the biggest difference — our athletes thrive on familiar faces. Even once or twice a month is meaningful. If your schedule is unpredictable, just let us know and we’ll work with you.
Can I volunteer with a friend or as a group?
Absolutely. We love when schools, clubs, sports teams, or workplaces send groups. It’s a great team-building activity with a genuine impact. Reach out and we can arrange group orientations.
Is this an official placement for school community service hours?
Yes. We regularly sign off hours for high school students completing their Ontario community service requirement, as well as for university and college placements. Contact us and we’ll sort out the paperwork.
What should I wear?
For baseball: comfortable athletic clothing and running shoes. For skating and hockey: bring your own skates if you have them (we can sometimes arrange loaners), dress in layers, and wear a helmet on the ice. All other protective equipment is provided.