Little League Baseball Inc

Overview

Little League Baseball Inc., widely known as Little League Baseball and Softball, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing youth sports programs globally. It was founded in 1939 by Carl E. Stotz in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, United States.

History

Carl Stotz, an oil clerk in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, began experimenting with organizing a baseball league for young children in 1938. This initiative led to the establishment of the first Little League, which consisted of three teams sponsored by local businesses: Jumbo Pretzel, Lycoming Dairy, and Lundy Lumber Company. The first official Little League game took place on June 6, 1939, when Lundy Lumber defeated Lycoming Dairy. Over the years, Little League has grown into an international organization, with leagues in more than 80 countries and over 2.5 million participants[1][2].

Mission and Structure

Little League's mission is to develop character, courage, and loyalty among participants while promoting teamwork and good sportsmanship. The organization is structured into four main levels: local, district, regional, and international. Local leagues operate within specific geographical boundaries and are typically managed by volunteer boards. These leagues are further grouped into districts for tournament purposes, which then lead to regional and international competitions[4].

Programs

Little League offers a variety of programs tailored to different age groups, ranging from tee-ball for younger children to Senior and Big Leagues for older adolescents. In addition to baseball, Little League also includes softball programs for both boys and girls. The organization emphasizes inclusivity, ensuring that every child plays in every game regardless of skill level[2][3].

Impact and Recognition

Little League has produced numerous successful Major League Baseball players and has become a revered institution in youth sports. It holds a congressional charter and has been recognized for its contributions to community development and character building among young people[1][2].