Little League History
Little League is an international pastime that has been a fabric of societies worldwide for 75 years. Since its founding in 1939 by Carl Stotz, Little League has instilled leadership, character, courage, and loyalty in all that participate, including the nearly 1.5 million adult volunteers. Little League can be found in more than 80 countries worldwide, with more than 2.4 million children participating each year. Little League has celebrated many milestones due to the dedication of its players, parents, and volunteers. Below are just a few examples…
- The Legacy Begins: First Little League Game was played on June 6, 1939
- Another First: First Little League Baseball® World Series was played in August 1947
- International Expansion: Canada became the first international team to charter in 1951
- Outgrowing Original Field: Howard J. Lamade Stadium was built in 1959 to support the growing popularity of Little League
- Federal Charter: Little League received its Federal Charter in 1964
- Expansion Outside of Baseball: Little League Softball was founded in 1974
- Dugout: Walt Disney Co. created Dugout the Mascot in 1985
- Challenger: The Little League Challenger Division was established in 1989
- Urban Initiative: The Urban Initiative Program was established in 1999
- The World Series Expands Again: Volunteer Stadium was built in 2001 to allow for a 16 team tournament
Little League Intermediate (50/70) Baseball Division: The Little League Intermediate (50/70) Baseball Division was created in 2012, creating nine divisions of play
Mission Statement
Freeport Little League provides that every manager, coach, and official will help all players to develop the highest type of sportsmanship, understanding and respect for the rules, courage in defeat, and becoming the best citizen possible. We will strive to provide quality instruction in the development of baseball and softball skills, sportsmanship, and competitiveness, along with fair play.
Positive Attitude.
Listen to your coaches.
Always play your best.
You are tomorrow’s athletes.
Be a good sport.
Allow for mistakes.
Learn from them.
Let players have fun!!
Little League Pledge
I TRUST IN GOD
I LOVE MY COUNTRY
AND WILL RESPECT ITS LAWS
I WILL PLAY FAIR
AND STRIVE TO WIN
BUT WIN OR LOSE
I WILL ALWAYS
DO MY BEST