Leagues are organized by age groups following the Little League rules. In Willards, we are currently organized into 8 leagues. They are

1. Tee Ball
   Tee Ball Baseball is for boys and girls 4-5 years old who want to learn the fundamentals of hitting and fielding.The primary goals of Tee Ball are to instruct children in the fundamentals of baseball and to allow them to experience the value of teamwork.In Tee Ball, players will not only hit off a batting tee, but in addition, they will be introduced to a pitching machine. Games will usually last an hour with two full innings. Outs are not recorded and each team having all players bat during an inning. Batters are presented 3 pitches from the pitching machine and if the player fails to make contact and put a ball in play, they will then hit off a batting tee. All players will advance one base and the final team batter will clear the bases; advancing all runners.During the defensive half of an inning, players will be positioned throughout the infield. Players will learn how to field balls and throw to first base.Parents are strongly encouraged to become involved in this introduction level of Little League. After completing a Little League volunteer application and passing a required national background check, parents may become involved in practices, and be eligible as coaches, managers, umpires, local league board members and other volunteer positions within the league.
2. Instructional (Baseball and Softball)
   The Instructional League is for players that are 7 or 8 years old, and continues to build on the concepts learned in Tee Ball within a more formal game structure.

   In baseball, batters are presented pitches from a pitching machine set at 40mph. Innings are based on 3 outs or 4 runs – whichever comes first. The final inning of play (usually the 4th inning) allows for unlimited runs or one full rotation of the lineup. Score is kept during the game to determine a winning team. Most baseball rules are taught and applied during the game. Players are introduced to “Live” pitching from other players in this division. If time permits, a player may pitch 3 pitches to a hitter in selected innings. If the hitter hits the pitch it is a live ball. If the hitter does not hit 1 of the 3 pitches thrown the machine is then utilized.

   In softball, batters are presented pitches by their coach.

3. Minor League (Baseball and Softball)
   The Minor League is intended for 9 and 10 year old players. This league provides a transition to more competitive baseball. The game play on the field closely resembles everyday baseball/softball with 9 defensive players and player pitching. Walks (base on balls) and stealing are allowed to occur. Each player must play in the field for at least 2 innings and have at least 1 at bat. Like the instructional league, innings are based on 3 outs or 4 runs, whichever comes first. Game play lasts 6 innings, 2 hours or may be limited due to darkness. Players are introduced to official Umpires in this division.
4. Major League (Baseball and Softball)
   The Major League is intended for 11 and 12 year old players. This league is a more competitive baseball/softball that works to enhance skills learned. The game play on the field closely resembles everyday baseball/softball with 9 defensive players and player pitching. Walks (base on balls) and stealing are allowed to occur. Each player must play in the field for at least 2 innings and have at least 1 at bat. There are no limits on runs and innings are complete after 3 outs. Games are 6 innings, 2 hours, or may limited due to darkness.
5. Intermediate League (Baseball)
   The Intermediate League is the transition league to “real” baseball rules. It is intended for players ages 12-13. Rules closely resemble the professional baseball rules but offer an exception with the base and pitching distance: 70ft bases, pitching from 50ft, runners leading off, etc. The field is of professional proportions with 90ft bases and 300ft plus fences. Each player must play in the field for at least 2 innings and have at least 1 at bat. There are no limits on runs and innings are complete after 3 outs. Games are 7 innings, 2 1/2hrs, or may be limited due to darkness.
6. Junior League (Softball)
   The Junior League is the transition league to “real” softball rules. It is intended for players ages 13-14.
7. Senior League (Baseball)
   The Senior League is intended for players 14-16. Rules closely resemble the professional baseball rules and the field is of professional proportions with 90ft bases and 300ft plus fences.