Little League is the largest youth sports organization in the world, and is governed by international rules for the safety and well-being of the children who play. The Western Massachusetts district includes Agawam, Westfield, Northampton, Gateway, Amherst, Belchertown, Easthampton and Southampton. Longmeadow Little League offers the regular season (April-June), where all games are played in town, a summer league (July), several teams that compete in regional tournaments and the opportunity to play in the Little League World Series. The summer league and tournaments are included as part of the registration fee. Children can also play up to the level of competition they are ready for, regardless of age. LLL provides the best balance of skills development and competition and is committed to teaching teamwork, respect, and sportsmanship at all levels of the game. Most importantly, we want to make sure everyone has fun - players, coaches, and parents. At all age groups from AAA and up players may have the opportunity to play in The Little League World Series and other Summer Tournaments. If your child is selected, LLL would support the cost of summer baseball. The regular season starts the last week of April
Ages 4, 5 & 6 Tee Ball: Tee Ball is the first step to learning to play baseball. Basic skills are emphasized along with fun which is essential at this age. This will be offered to 4 and 5 year olds as well as 6 year olds who have not played in the past.
Ages 6 & 7 A: The purpose of this level is to begin the process of teaching the game of baseball, develop the basic skills necessary to play the game, and introduce the children to the basic rules of the game. This league will continue to provide skills development by using a modified 3 inning baseball game.
Ages 7, 8 & 9 AA: Pitching and catching is live, performed by the players themselves. New skills need to be taught and developed as the season progresses - bunting, base running, signs, etc. are all part of the game that need to be taught as well as continuing education in the basic rules of the game is important part of this level of play.
Ages 9, 10 & 11 AAA: AAA league is primarily a developmental program for the Major League. Players will enjoy both skills development and competition. Like the Majors, players from this league may be selected to play in regional tournaments. The age range is 9 thru 11 years old with select 7 and 8 year olds.
Ages 10, 11 & 12 Majors: The Majors will continue to provide the best balance of skills development and competition. This league offers the highest level of competitive play in Little League. The very best of the players in the Majors will be invited to participate in the Little League World Series. In addition, many All-stars will participate in several tournaments held in the region. These teams are drafted after an evaluation by the coaches. Placement in the Majors are attained through tryouts.
Ages 12 & 13 Intermediate Division: The intermediate division uses an expanded diamond with longer base paths (70 feet as compared to 60 feet in majors) and pitching distance (50 feet away from home plate, compared to 46 feet in majors) to prepare kids for the full size diamond used for high school and beyond. The team will travel to play against surrounding area Little League programs and there will be opportunities to compete in summer tournaments.
Ages 13, 14 & 15 Senior Division: This division is played on the full size 90-foot diamond in a competitive environment. Typically appropriate for children in 7th grade and above, players should have 1-2 years of prior Intermediate-level experience on a 70/75 foot diamond. Games are usually played against teams from other communities, such as Easthampton, Southampton, Huntington, Agawam and Westfield and includes travel to these communities. Home games usually are played at DiPippo Field in Longmeadow.