Challenger Basketball or children with disabilities will make its debut next month.

This non-competitive program of the Manteca Parks and Recreation Department and the Manteca Unified School District is designed to provide a safe and fun way for kindergarten- through- 12th- grade youngsters to explore sports activities.

 “They can participate in program that is truly focused on children coming together and experiencing a positive sporting and social environment,” said Roger Goatcher, who is the school district’s director of Student Services / Special Education.

Cost for Challenger Basketball is $35 per participant. The season is scheduled to run from Jan. 10 through Feb. 14.

The first official practice kicks off at 2:30 p.m. in the Golden West Elementary School Multi-Purpose Building, 1031 N. Main St. in Manteca.

“The league provides school aged children the ability to come out to the basketball court and have a structured setting to be with other kids of the same age and participate in organized games. Regardless of the severity of their disability,” Goatcher said.

The program is about inclusion and full participation for all children.

For more information, call Chris Breitenbucher, Manteca Parks and Recreation, at 209.256.8642 or email cbreitenbucher@ci.manteca.ca.us.