Little League Baseball Inc

Little League Baseball Inc., a nonprofit organization, is renowned globally for its youth sports programs focused on baseball and softball. It was founded in 1939 by Carl E. Stotz in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, with the mission of helping children develop discipline, teamwork, courage, loyalty, good character, and strong physical health through sports.

Founding and Early Years

The foundation of Little League began in 1938 when Carl Stotz, an avid baseball fan, decided to organize a local team in Williamsport. Initially, he experimented with field sizes and equipment with his nephews. In 1939, Stotz successfully launched the first official Little League season, which featured three teams sponsored by local businesses: Jumbo Pretzel, Lycoming Dairy, and Lundy Lumber. This initial season laid the groundwork for what would become a global youth sports phenomenon.

Structure and Expansion

By 1946, Little League had grown to include 12 leagues in Pennsylvania. The first league outside of Pennsylvania was established in Hammonton, New Jersey, in 1947. Little League continued to expand internationally, with the first permanent leagues outside the United States opening in British Columbia, Canada, in 1951. Today, Little League operates in over 80 countries and is the largest organized youth sports organization worldwide.

Programs and Divisions

Little League offers programs for children aged 4 to 16. The organization is divided into several age-specific divisions, including:

• Tee Ball: For children aged 4 to 7.
• Minor League: For children aged 7 to 12.
• Little League (Major League): For children aged 9 to 12.
• Junior League: For children aged 13 to 14.
• Senior League: For children aged 14 to 16.
• Big League: For children aged 16 to 18. In addition to these baseball divisions, Little League also offers several softball divisions.

Philosophy and Operations

The Little League philosophy emphasizes the importance of character development, ensuring that every child participates regardless of skill level. Each local league operates autonomously with its own board of directors but must adhere to Little League's rules and policies. District administrators oversee a group of local leagues, facilitating tournaments and ensuring compliance with organizational standards.

Recognitions and Policy

Little League Baseball Inc. received a Federal Charter in 1964, becoming one of the few organizations to achieve this status. The organization is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit entity and is headquartered in South Williamsport, Pennsylvania. It is led by a team of executives dedicated to expanding youth baseball and softball opportunities worldwide.