April is Autism Awareness Month, a time to celebrate the unique strengths and talents of individuals with autism while also advocating for greater acceptance and inclusion. At the YMCA of Greater Kansas City, our Challenger programs are committed to ensuring that individuals of all abilities have the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.
For Elizabeth Burt and her son, Max, Challenger Sports has been life-changing. Max, who is autistic, has faced challenges finding physical activities where he feels comfortable and supported. Traditional sports didn’t always provide the right fit. “But the moment he stepped onto the Challenger field, that changed. Instead of pressure, there was encouragement. Instead of rigid expectations, there was understanding,” tells Elizabeth.
Challenger Sports offered Max a space where he could participate in his own way, surrounded by coaches and volunteers who believed in his potential. Each week on the field, he wasn’t just playing a sport—he was building confidence, making connections, and discovering his own capabilities.
Moments That Matter
Elizabeth has watched Max grow with every game he plays. She says, “From his first game to now, every high-five, every goal (whether it was in his net or the other team’s), and every cheering sideline moment has built his confidence in a way that’s hard to put into words.”
One of his most unforgettable experiences came when he was invited to play at the Kansas City Chiefs stadium alongside professional players, his Challenger teammates, and coaches. That day, he received a special Chiefs jersey that quickly became his most prized possession. “Even though he has almost outgrown it (it’s VERY tight now), he refuses to stop wearing it—especially on Red Fridays,” the mom jokes. For Max, that jersey represents far more than just a game. “It’s more than just a piece of clothing to him; it’s a symbol of belonging, joy, and the friendships he’s built through Challenger.”
More Than a Game, a Community
Over the years, Challenger Sports has grown into a full-fledged community, providing not only sports but also social opportunities for individuals with diverse abilities. Families come together, volunteers dedicate their time to creating meaningful experiences, and athletes like Max find a place where they are valued and celebrated. As Elizabeth describes, “Challenger Sports has given us something beyond just weekend games. It’s given us a community—families who understand, volunteers who care, and a space where Max can thrive.”
Since its launch in 2006, the program has continued to expand, including the opening of the all-accessible Fred and Shirley Pryor YMCA Challenger Sports Complex in 2010. The impact of Challenger is felt far beyond the playing field, as athletes build friendships, confidence, and lasting memories.
Be Part of the Challenger Team
At the core of Challenger Sports are the volunteers who make it all possible. Challenger Buddies play a key role in supporting athletes, providing encouragement, assistance, and friendship throughout each season. These volunteers allow families like Elizabeth’s to experience the joy of cheering from the sidelines while knowing their child is supported.
Elizabeth expresses deep gratitude for the impact Challenger has had on her son: “To the coaches, the volunteers, and everyone who makes this program possible: thank you. You’ve given Max a place to belong, and in doing so, you’ve given us a gift we’ll always treasure.”
During Autism Awareness Month, which is also National Volunteer Month, we celebrate stories like Max’s—stories of inclusion, support, and the power of a team. If you’re looking for a way to make a difference, consider becoming a Challenger Buddy and help create life-changing moments for athletes of all abilities.
Join us in making an impact. Learn more and get involved today at https://kansascityymca.org/programs/adaptive-challenger
Let’s go, Challenger!
