Little League Baseball Inc

Little League Baseball Inc. is a prominent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to youth development through baseball and softball. It is based in South Williamsport, Pennsylvania, and has been instrumental in fostering the character, courage, and loyalty of millions of children worldwide since its inception.

History

The organization was founded in 1939 by Carl E. Stotz, who aimed to create a platform for young children to play baseball akin to the professionals of the time. The first Little League games were played in Williamsport with three teams sponsored by local businesses. Over the years, Little League has expanded globally, with leagues in more than 80 countries.

Mission and Structure

Little League is structured on four primary levels: local, district, region, and international. Each local league operates autonomously, governed by its own board of directors, and ensures that every child plays in every game, emphasizing inclusivity and character development.

At the district level, multiple leagues come together for tournaments, while regions oversee larger geographic areas, both domestically and internationally. The organization holds a federal charter from the U.S. Congress, placing it alongside organizations like the Red Cross and Boy Scouts.

Programs and Divisions

Little League offers various divisions catering to different age groups, from Tee Ball for young children to Senior Leagues and Big Leagues for older adolescents. It also includes programs like Little League Softball and the Challenger Division for children with disabilities. These programs focus on developing physical skills, teamwork, and sportsmanship.

Impact

With over 2.5 million players and more than 180,000 teams, Little League Baseball Inc. is recognized as the largest organized youth sports program globally. It emphasizes not only athletic development but also the cultivation of important life skills such as discipline, courage, and loyalty.

Awards and Recognition

Little League offers several awards to recognize outstanding individuals, including the Good Sport of the Year Award, the Challenger Award, and the Bill Shea Distinguished Little League Graduate Award. These awards highlight the contributions and achievements within the Little League community.