“Wow! What game was that?” you ask. Pop Warner Challenger Division football, of course, played by athletes who know what it's like to deal with adversity and come through with flying colors!

The 18 players who took the field today at Pop Warner Super Bowl Week – 2005, were all from East Greenbush Pop Warner – just east of Albany, NY. Every one of those players had a “buddy” who worked with him, or her, to field two full squads of gung-ho guys and girls for some well organized, all out fun at one of the best youth football facilities in the country.

“Football for kids with disabilities?” You bet, its flag football. It's action-packed and, heads up America! - Challenger Division football is sparking interest in communities large and small all over the country. And, for good reason. ”It's all about normalcy,” said Peter Pelleschi, father of Roman Pelleschi a five year old wide receiver and defensive back for East Greenbush. “Challenger football lets kids do things just like other kids, and it does wonders for building their self-esteem”

For each game, Roman buddies up with his 9 year old brother Pete, who also plays Pop Warner Jr. Pee Wee Division football, to form a one-two punch of sibling-pride that brings a smile to the face, and a tear to the eye, of Peter and Danielle Pelleschi, their proud parents. “Roman likes all things football. And he loves to do the same things his big brother does. And, Challenger Football lets them, and all the rest of these kids, enjoy the same excitement and the same involvement in football. It's absolutely great!“

Standing with the parents of these terrific kids as they lined up to form a pre-game welcoming tunnel, you could feel an energy and emotion every bit as complete as anything you'd see in any other level of Pop Warner football.

“The kids love this,“ said Rich Grace one of the founders of the East Greenbush Challenger group. “They play in all kinds of weather, the love the atmosphere , they feel the same sense of team work and individual accomplishment as any other kid who plays football.”

But, the very best thing about this wonderful game was seeing the faces of the players, and hearing the cheers of the spirited cheer leaders who support this great groups of kids, as they posed for team pictures arm in arm… heads held high, mud stained uniform shirts and smiles a mile wide. “Football for kids with disabilities?” You bet…and Pop Warner is showing us the way.

Challenger football is designed for children with disabilities to enjoy sports and cheer just like everyone else. Participants play with a 'buddy' who assists them with the ball and navigating the field. Designed for boys and girls between the ages of 5-18 years old and a range of disabilities, everyone gets a chance to play.

Click here to watch a video excerpt about the East Greenbush Challenger Division, from a national broadcast