New Structure Announced for Youth Baseball

The British Baseball Federation (BBF) has unveiled a new structure for the development of youth baseball across the country.

The sport’s national governing body identified the importance of youth baseball in ‘Our Future’ its long term plan for British baseball which was published in early 2023.

“If we are to develop the sport, we need to ensure that we have the ability to identify and develop the potential stars of the future and to provide a pathway into clubs and the national GB Baseball programme,” said Lee Manning, the BBF’s Development Official. “The new structure provides clarity for clubs and players about what is available for a range of age groups.

“We are delighted to be able to work with the various programmes to provide youth baseball across the country which we believe will increase engagement and participation in the sport we love.”

T-Rex T-Ball is specifically aimed and four to seven year olds and is run by Will Lintern, a former GB player and coach.

Will Lintern, Director of Development and Dinosaur Experience said, “Our vision is to be the best baseball format for children, one that catalyses the next generation of baseball players and a larger development pipeline for youth & adult clubs, and the national team. This partnership with the BBF will mean we can help clubs across the country ignite a passion for baseball in the hearts and minds of thousands of children and their parents.”

MLB First Pitch, part of the London Series Legacy programme, and Little League Minors are designed for eight to 10 year olds.

The Little League Majors programme will cater for 10 to 12 year olds before they move to the BBF Super League which covers 12 to 18 year olds.

Young players are able to play in the BBF Adult Leagues from the age of 14.

Further information can be obtained from the BBF by emailing youth@britishbaseball.org.uk and by visiting the Our Future Youth Development page