Little League Baseball and Softball's Rich Personal History

Wednesday June 15th, 2011
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Topic: Trading Lapel Pins

We create custom trading pins for Little League teams nationwide on a regular basis but how often do we stop to think about how the program was founded and the strides it has made in terms of athleticism since the late 1930s?

The non-profit organization, headquartered in South Williamsport, Pennsylvania, organizes youth baseball and softball leagues throughout the United States and the rest of the world.  To date, it is the largest organized youth sports organization in the world.  It’s motto, “Courage, Character and Loyalty,” is incorporated into its logo which features the organization’s name, Little League Baseball and the colors red, white, and blue.

Who Founded Little League Baseball and Softball?

Carl Stotz founded a three-team league in 1939.  Since then, Little League Baseball, Incorporated has encouraged local volunteers to organize and run Little League programs that are chartered annually through Little League International.  Specific divisions of both baseball and softball cater to children ages 5 to 18.

What Is the Little League Baseball World Series?

The Little League Baseball World Series takes place every August in South Williamsport.  Players from all around the world travel to Pennsylvania to compete.  It is one of eight World Series every year.  There are series for baseball and softball in Little, Junior, Senior, and Big Leagues.  Each is held in its own location.

How Many Different Baseball and Softball Divisions Are There?

Depending on age, there are several different divisions for boys and girls.

Here are the different divisions starting from the youngest players to the oldest:

  • Tee-Ball: 5-6 year olds, 7-8 year olds with a local option, boys and girls
  • Minor League: 7-12 year olds, boys and girls
  • 9-10 Year Olds: 9-10 year olds, boys and girls
  • Little League or Major Division: 9-12 year olds, local leagues may limit to 10-12 year olds or 11-12 year olds, boys and girls
  • Pilot Division: 12-13 year olds, helps Little Leaguers make the transition to regulation-size fields in Junior League Baseball
  • Junior League: 13-14 year olds, boys and girls
  • Senior League: 14-16 year olds, boys and girls
  • Big League: 16-18 year olds, boys and girls

What’s the Big Deal About Trading Pins At Tournaments?

Custom baseball and softball trading pins are popular at games and tournaments because they allow players, their coaches, and family members to interact with other teams and athletes from around the world.  Teams place their order by contacting the pin manufacturer of their choice and submit artwork and the details that they want include in their custom design.

The trading pin company then comes up with a pin featuring the team’s name, hometown, year of participation, mascot, and team colors.  Teams may also opt to have each individual player’s name or number included in their pin’s design.  This gives them a personal touch and adds to their tradeability.

Little League Baseball has been a part of young people’s lives since 1939.  It is recognized worldwide and has produced many Major League World Series players including Boog Powell, Jim Barbieri, Rick Wise, Carney Lansford, Ed Vosberg, Charlie Hayes, Derek Bowell, and Jason Varitek to name a few.  Many of its former players are also members of the National Baseball Hall of Fame.  That’s quite an accomplishment if you ask us!