National Little League Baseball Week
National Little League Baseball Week: Celebrating Youth Baseball
National Little League Baseball Week is a week-long celebration dedicated to honoring the spirit of youth baseball. Established in 1959, this observance highlights the values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and community involvement that Little League Baseball fosters among young players.
Quick Facts
- When is it? Starting the second Monday in June, lasting for seven days.
- Tagged as: Youth sports, baseball, community celebration.
- What’s the hashtag? #NationalLittleLeagueWeek
- When was it founded? 1959.
- Who founded it? U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower.
History of National Little League Baseball Week
The concept of Little League Baseball began in 1939 in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, when Carl E. Stotz envisioned a program for children to learn and enjoy baseball. By 1959, to commemorate the league’s 20th anniversary, President Eisenhower proclaimed National Little League Baseball Week. The week aims to promote physical fitness and character-building through community events and games.
Timeline
- 1939: Carl E. Stotz founds Little League Baseball in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.
- 1947: The first Little League World Series is held.
- 1951: Little League expands internationally with leagues in Canada and Panama.
- 1957: Monterrey, Mexico becomes the first international team to win the World Series.
- 1959: National Little League Baseball Week is officially proclaimed by President Eisenhower.
Dates by Next Year (2025–2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | June 9–15 | Monday–Sunday |
| 2026 | June 8–14 | Monday–Sunday |
| 2027 | June 14–20 | Monday–Sunday |
| 2028 | June 12–18 | Monday–Sunday |
| 2029 | June 11–17 | Monday–Sunday |
| 2030 | June 10–16 | Monday–Sunday |
Observed
National Little League Baseball Week is celebrated with games, parades, and community events across the United States. It serves as a platform to encourage youth participation in sports while emphasizing values like character, courage, and loyalty.
Fun Facts About Little League Baseball
- The first official Little League game was played on June 6, 1939.
- Over two million boys and girls participate annually in more than 80 countries.
- The first televised Little League World Series aired in 1953.
- Monterrey, Mexico’s team pitched a perfect game in the 1957 World Series final.
Quiz
- Who founded Little League Baseball?
- In what year was the first Little League World Series held?
- Which country was the first international team to win the World Series?
(Answers: Carl E. Stotz; 1947; Mexico)
FAQs
- What age group participates in Little League?
Children aged 4 to 16 are eligible to play. - Where is the headquarters of Little League?
South Williamsport, Pennsylvania. - What is the motto of Little League?
“Character, Courage, and Loyalty.”
Related
- Little League World Series
- MLB Little League Classic
- National Youth Sports Week
- International Day of Sport for Development and Peace
