Little League Baseball Inc.

Little League Baseball Inc., also known as Little League International, is a prominent U.S. nonprofit organization that organizes local youth baseball and softball leagues worldwide. It is headquartered in South Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

Overview

Founded in 1939 by Carl Edwin Stotz, Little League began as a three-team league in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, with the first game played on June 6, 1939. Initially designed for boys aged 8 to 12, it expanded to include girls in 1974 and has grown to become the largest organized youth sports organization globally, with over 180,000 teams across more than 80 countries[1][2].

Divisions and Programs

Little League offers various divisions catering to children aged 4 to 16, including:

• Little League Baseball: Traditional baseball focusing on skills development.
• Little League Softball: Established in 1974 for younger players.
• Senior and Big League Divisions: For older players (13-18 years).
• Challenger Division: Founded in 1990, this program is designed for children with physical or mental disabilities[3][4].

Structure

The organization operates through a hierarchical structure:

• Local Leagues: Operate within defined community boundaries, overseen by elected boards.
• Districts: Comprise several local leagues, managed by District Administrators.
• Regions: Larger administrative units covering multiple districts, both nationally and internationally[4][5].

Awards and Recognition

Little League offers several awards for outstanding participants and volunteers, such as the Good Sport of the Year Award and the Volunteer of the Year Award[2].

Legal Status

Little League International is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, authorized under Title 36 of the U.S. Code. It maintains a congressional charter, highlighting its significance in promoting youth sports and character development[2].

Annual Operations

Each year, Little League hosts numerous tournaments culminating in the Little League World Series held in Williamsport. Television partners such as ESPN broadcast these events, reaching a global audience[2].

Mission

Little League's motto is Character, Courage, and Loyalty. The organization aims to foster these values through sports, emphasizing teamwork and personal growth[1][2].