History

Little League baseball has the esteem of the longest running youth sports organization in the US. Founded in 1939 by Carl Stotz, Little League has grown to be the largest international baseball organization with over 2.6 million players annually. With seasons of play year around, development of players is essential and culminates each year with international tournaments at multiple division levels between June and August which can often be watched on ESPN.

Federally incorporated

It is important to also note that in 1964, and later amended in 1974, Little League was granted status as a Federal Incorporation which is the highest recognition that the Federal Government can accord an organization. What this means is, LL programs are incorporated across all 50 states and endows the program with protective integrity by the government. This has placed LL in the same category as the Red Cross, Boy Scouts of America, and Boys and Girls Clubs of America. It is the only youth sports organization so honored.

Safety

So what about the play? Over the years Little League has implemented multiple programs to not only develop the players but the community as well. Everything starts with safety. Little League is always evolving to ensure all participants can enjoy the game throughout their playing career in baseball with Pitch counts, Mandatory safety equipment use and management, Volunteer background checks, Mandatory concussion training. Nothing is more tragic than retirement due to overuse and Little League has made sure that it will not happen to your player with its ASAP Safety Program. This program ensures its youth players stay as protected as possible when they are playing the game.

Community

Little League also is very involved in the development of its volunteers as well. With Programs like the Positive Coaching Alliance, basic practice schedules for younger divisions, Umpire training, League Training, the Challenger program and the LL Urban initiative. Little League wants to make sure that each community becomes stronger with friendships that last a lifetime.