Since 1939, Little League baseball has shaped generation after generation of baseball players and fans worldwide. From its humble beginnings as a small organization in the heart of Pennsylvania to its current status as the largest and most influential youth sports organization in the entire world, Little League has grown immensely and influenced millions of young athletes. To recognize the accomplishments of players, coaches and volunteers worldwide, Little League offers a number of trophies and awards to show thanks and instill positive values in those who contribute to the organization. These trophies and awards have become a vital part of the organization and its mission throughout the world. Here are just a few of the trophies and recognition awards presented by Little League baseball.
Challenger Award
Established in 1998, this trophy is among the most valued in Little League baseball and honors the volunteers for the Challenger Division, the division for mentally and physically disabled players. Presented during the annual Little League Baseball World Series in South Williamsport, Pennsylvania, these trophies offer a way for the Little League organization to thank the volunteers who support this vital program year after year.
William A. “Bill” Shea Distinguished Little League Graduate Award
One of the most unique trophies in Little League baseball, the Bill Shea Distinguished Little League Graduate Award honors a former Little League player currently in the MLB that best exemplifies the values of Little League and also serves to honor Bill Shea, the former President of the Little League Foundation who contributed much to the organization as well as to Major League Baseball. Established in 1987, the award is presented during the Little League World Series every summer in South Williamsport, Pennsylvania. One of the most prestigious awards in Little League, it is considered a rare honor to receive.
Good Sport Award
The Good Sport Award is an award presented to a Little League player who has demonstrated important qualities like leadership, teamwork, determination, sportsmanship and a desire to improve over the course of the season. The award is not based on the player’s statistics but instead is based entirely on more intangible factors like the work ethic and team spirit demonstrated by the individual player. First awarded in 1989, the award has played a crucial role in furthering the positive values and ethics that the Little League organization strives to instill young players with.
Volunteer of the Year Award
Established in 1989, the important Volunteer of the Year Award helps to honor the volunteers who dedicate their time and energy to the organization. The award serves to recognize those who work tirelessly at the grassroots level to keep the organization going. Like most other awards, it is presented annually at the Little League World Series in Pennsylvania.
George and Barbara Bush Parents of the Year Award
Named after former President George H.W. Bush and former First Lady Barbara Bush, who have worked hard to support the Little League Organization over many decades, this award is presented to the parents most actively involved and supportive of their son’s Little League baseball experience. Established in 1980, it remains one of the highest honors in Little League baseball.
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