Little League World Series Results: A Year-by-Year History
The Little League World Series (LLWS) is an annual baseball tournament for children aged 10 to 12 years old, representing various Little League teams from around the world. Founded in 1947, it has become one of the most iconic youth sports events, captivating audiences with its display of skill, sportsmanship, and international camaraderie. This article will provide a detailed look at the Little League World Series results by year, celebrating the champions and memorable moments that have defined this beloved tournament.
Early Years: 1947-1959
The Little League World Series began modestly in 1947 in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, with only teams from Pennsylvania participating. Over the years, it expanded to include teams from other states and eventually, countries. These early years laid the foundation for the global phenomenon it is today. Let's dive into the results:
1947: Maynard Midget League (Williamsport, PA)
The inaugural Little League World Series saw the Maynard Midget League of Williamsport, Pennsylvania, emerge as the champions. In a tournament featuring teams solely from Pennsylvania, Maynard showcased exceptional talent and teamwork, setting the standard for future LLWS competitions. This victory marked the beginning of a tradition that would grow exponentially in the coming decades.
1948: Lock Haven All-Stars (Lock Haven, PA)
The Lock Haven All-Stars continued Pennsylvania's dominance in 1948, securing the championship title. This victory further solidified the state's early influence on the tournament and highlighted the growing interest in Little League baseball across the region. The players' dedication and skill were evident, marking another successful year for Pennsylvania teams.
1949: Hammonton All-Stars (Hammonton, NJ)
The Hammonton All-Stars from New Jersey broke Pennsylvania's winning streak in 1949, claiming the championship and signaling the expansion of competitive Little League baseball beyond Pennsylvania. This victory was significant as it demonstrated that teams from other states were beginning to catch up and compete at a high level.
1950: Houston Little League (Houston, TX)
The Houston Little League became the first team from Texas to win the LLWS in 1950, showcasing the sport's growing popularity in the southern United States. Their triumph underscored the increasing national appeal of Little League baseball and its ability to unite communities through spirited competition.
1951: Stamford National L.L. (Stamford, CT)
The Stamford National Little League from Connecticut took home the title in 1951, marking another milestone for the northeastern United States. This victory highlighted the widespread enthusiasm for Little League baseball across different regions of the country, demonstrating its inclusive and unifying nature.
1952: Norwalk Little League (Norwalk, CT)
Norwalk Little League, also from Connecticut, continued the state's success by winning the 1952 championship. This consecutive win underscored Connecticut's strong Little League programs and the dedication of its young players and coaches. The team's performance further cemented the region's reputation for developing talented baseball players.
1953: Birmingham L.L. (Birmingham, AL)
The Birmingham Little League from Alabama clinched the title in 1953, marking the first victory for a team from the southeastern United States since Houston's win. This win was a testament to the growing popularity and competitiveness of Little League baseball in the region, showcasing the talent emerging from Alabama.
1954: Schenectady L.L. (Schenectady, NY)
The Schenectady Little League from New York emerged victorious in 1954, adding another state to the list of LLWS champions. This win was particularly significant for New York, demonstrating the state's commitment to youth sports and the development of young baseball talent. The team's performance captivated local fans and brought pride to the community.
1955: Delaware Township L.L. (Delaware Township, NJ)
The Delaware Township Little League from New Jersey secured the championship in 1955, bringing the title back to the Garden State. This victory was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and coaches, further solidifying New Jersey's place in Little League World Series history. The team's success inspired many young athletes in the region.
1956: Roswell L.L. (Roswell, NM)
The Roswell Little League from New Mexico claimed the title in 1956, marking a historic win for the southwestern United States. This victory showcased the growing diversity of Little League talent across the country and highlighted the competitive spirit of the Roswell team. Their achievement was celebrated widely in New Mexico.
1957: Industrial L.L. (Monterrey, Mexico)
In 1957, the Industrial Little League from Monterrey, Mexico, made history as the first team from outside the United States to win the LLWS. This groundbreaking victory marked the beginning of international participation and demonstrated the global appeal of Little League baseball. The team's exceptional skill and sportsmanship captivated audiences worldwide.
1958: Escanaba L.L. (Escanaba, MI)
The Escanaba Little League from Michigan brought the title back to the United States in 1958, following Mexico's historic win. This victory underscored the resilience and competitive spirit of American teams and highlighted the strong Little League programs in Michigan. The team's performance was a source of pride for the local community.
1959: Industrial L.L. (Monterrey, Mexico)
The Industrial Little League from Monterrey, Mexico, repeated their success in 1959, securing their second consecutive LLWS title. This remarkable achievement solidified their place in Little League history and demonstrated the enduring strength of their program. The team's consistent performance set a high standard for international teams.
The 1960s: A Decade of Growth and Competition
The 1960s witnessed significant growth and increased competition in the Little League World Series. Teams from various parts of the United States and the world battled for supremacy, creating memorable moments and showcasing exceptional talent. This decade was marked by rising international participation and the establishment of new Little League powerhouses.
1960: Levittown L.L. (Levittown, PA)
The Levittown Little League from Pennsylvania started the decade strong, winning the 1960 championship. This victory brought the title back to Pennsylvania and highlighted the state's continued commitment to developing young baseball talent. The team's performance inspired many young athletes in the region.
1961: El Campo L.L. (El Campo, TX)
The El Campo Little League from Texas emerged victorious in 1961, adding another win for the southern United States. This victory was a testament to the growing popularity and competitiveness of Little League baseball in Texas, showcasing the talent emerging from the state.
1962: San Jose National L.L. (San Jose, CA)
The San Jose National Little League from California claimed the title in 1962, marking a significant win for the western United States. This victory highlighted the widespread enthusiasm for Little League baseball in California and the dedication of its young players and coaches.
1963: Granada L.L. (Granada Hills, CA)
Granada Little League, also from California, continued the state's success by winning the 1963 championship. This consecutive win underscored California's strong Little League programs and the development of talented baseball players. The team's performance further cemented the region's reputation.
1964: Mid-Island L.L. (Staten Island, NY)
The Mid-Island Little League from Staten Island, New York, emerged victorious in 1964, adding another state to the list of LLWS champions. This win was particularly significant for New York, demonstrating the state's commitment to youth sports and the development of young baseball talent.
1965: Windsor Locks L.L. (Windsor Locks, CT)
The Windsor Locks Little League from Connecticut secured the championship in 1965, bringing the title back to the northeastern United States. This victory was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and coaches, further solidifying Connecticut's place in Little League World Series history.
1966: West Tokyo L.L. (Tokyo, Japan)
In 1966, the West Tokyo Little League from Tokyo, Japan, marked a historic win as the first team from Japan to win the LLWS. This victory highlighted the growing international presence in the tournament and the increasing competitiveness of teams from around the world.
1967: West Tokyo L.L. (Tokyo, Japan)
The West Tokyo Little League repeated their success in 1967, securing their second consecutive LLWS title. This remarkable achievement solidified their place in Little League history and demonstrated the enduring strength of their program. The team's consistent performance set a high standard for international teams.
1968: Wakayama L.L. (Wakayama, Japan)
The Wakayama Little League from Japan continued the country's dominance by winning the 1968 championship. This victory underscored Japan's strong Little League programs and the dedication of its young players and coaches. The team's performance further cemented the region's reputation.
1969: Taipei L.L. (Taipei, Taiwan)
The Taipei Little League from Taiwan claimed the title in 1969, marking a historic win for the island nation. This victory showcased the growing diversity of Little League talent across the world and highlighted the competitive spirit of the Taipei team. Their achievement was celebrated widely in Taiwan.
The 1970s: Domination and Memorable Moments
The 1970s were characterized by a period of dominance by teams from Taiwan and Japan, who consistently showcased exceptional skill and sportsmanship. This decade also brought memorable moments and stories that added to the rich history of the Little League World Series.
1970: Wayne-Westland L.L. (Wayne, MI)
The Wayne-Westland Little League from Michigan broke the streak of international victories in 1970, bringing the title back to the United States. This victory underscored the resilience and competitive spirit of American teams and highlighted the strong Little League programs in Michigan.
1971: Taipei L.L. (Taipei, Taiwan)
The Taipei Little League from Taiwan continued their success in 1971, securing their second LLWS title. This remarkable achievement solidified their place in Little League history and demonstrated the enduring strength of their program.
1972: Taipei L.L. (Taipei, Taiwan)
The Taipei Little League from Taiwan achieved a three-peat in 1972, winning their third consecutive LLWS title. This unprecedented success highlighted the dominance of Taiwanese teams during this era and their commitment to excellence.
1973: Kao Hsiung L.L. (Kao Hsiung, Taiwan)
The Kao Hsiung Little League from Taiwan continued the country's winning streak in 1973, securing another LLWS title. This victory showcased the depth of talent and strong Little League programs in Taiwan.
1974: Kao Hsiung L.L. (Kao Hsiung, Taiwan)
The Kao Hsiung Little League from Taiwan repeated their success in 1974, winning their second consecutive LLWS title. Their consistent performance demonstrated the strength of their program and their commitment to excellence.
1975: Lakewood L.L. (Lakewood, NJ)
The Lakewood Little League from New Jersey broke the Taiwanese dominance in 1975, bringing the title back to the United States. This victory was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and coaches, further solidifying New Jersey's place in Little League World Series history.
1976: Tokyo Kitasuna L.L. (Tokyo, Japan)
The Tokyo Kitasuna Little League from Japan emerged victorious in 1976, adding another win for Japan in the LLWS. This victory highlighted the strong Little League programs in Japan and the dedication of its young players and coaches.
1977: Hua Lian L.L. (Hua Lian, Taiwan)
The Hua Lian Little League from Taiwan continued the country's success in 1977, securing another LLWS title. This victory showcased the depth of talent and strong Little League programs in Taiwan.
1978: Pin-Tung L.L. (Pin-Tung, Taiwan)
The Pin-Tung Little League from Taiwan claimed the title in 1978, marking another win for Taiwan in the LLWS. This victory highlighted the consistent success of Taiwanese teams and their commitment to excellence.
1979: Hsien L.L. (Hsien, Taiwan)
The Hsien Little League from Taiwan secured the championship in 1979, bringing another LLWS title to Taiwan. This victory was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and coaches, further solidifying Taiwan's place in Little League World Series history.
The 1980s: Transition and New Champions
The 1980s marked a period of transition in the Little League World Series, with new champions emerging and teams from different regions gaining prominence. This decade saw increased parity and competition, leading to more unpredictable outcomes.
1980: Hsien L.L. (Hsien, Taiwan)
The Hsien Little League from Taiwan started the decade strong, winning the 1980 championship. This victory highlighted the enduring strength of Taiwanese Little League programs and their commitment to excellence.
1981: Tampa West L.L. (Tampa, FL)
The Tampa West Little League from Florida emerged victorious in 1981, bringing the title back to the United States. This victory underscored the growing talent in the southern United States and the competitive spirit of the Tampa team.
1982: Kirkland National L.L. (Kirkland, WA)
The Kirkland National Little League from Washington claimed the title in 1982, marking a significant win for the Pacific Northwest. This victory highlighted the widespread enthusiasm for Little League baseball in Washington and the dedication of its young players and coaches.
1983: Marietta National L.L. (Marietta, GA)
The Marietta National Little League from Georgia secured the championship in 1983, adding another win for the southern United States. This victory was a testament to the growing popularity and competitiveness of Little League baseball in Georgia.
1984: Seoul L.L. (Seoul, South Korea)
The Seoul Little League from South Korea emerged victorious in 1984, marking a historic win for the country. This victory showcased the growing international presence in the tournament and the increasing competitiveness of teams from around the world.
1985: Mexicali L.L. (Mexicali, Mexico)
The Mexicali Little League from Mexico claimed the title in 1985, bringing the championship back to Mexico. This victory highlighted the strong Little League programs in Mexico and the dedication of its young players and coaches.
1986: Tainan Park L.L. (Tainan, Taiwan)
The Tainan Park Little League from Taiwan secured the championship in 1986, adding another LLWS title to Taiwan's impressive record. This victory showcased the enduring strength of Taiwanese Little League programs.
1987: Ga-Kang L.L. (Taichung, Taiwan)
The Ga-Kang Little League from Taiwan continued the country's success in 1987, securing another LLWS title. This victory highlighted the depth of talent and strong Little League programs in Taiwan.
1988: Taichung L.L. (Taichung, Taiwan)
The Taichung Little League from Taiwan claimed the title in 1988, marking another win for Taiwan in the LLWS. This victory highlighted the consistent success of Taiwanese teams and their commitment to excellence.
1989: Trumbull National L.L. (Trumbull, CT)
The Trumbull National Little League from Connecticut secured the championship in 1989, bringing the title back to the United States. This victory was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and coaches, further solidifying Connecticut's place in Little League World Series history.
The 1990s: Continued Parity and Global Expansion
The 1990s saw continued parity in the Little League World Series, with teams from various countries and regions achieving success. This decade also witnessed further global expansion, with more international teams participating and competing at a high level.
1990: San Ramon Valley L.L. (Danville, CA)
The San Ramon Valley Little League from California started the decade strong, winning the 1990 championship. This victory highlighted the widespread enthusiasm for Little League baseball in California and the dedication of its young players and coaches.
1991: Taichung Park L.L. (Taichung, Taiwan)
The Taichung Park Little League from Taiwan emerged victorious in 1991, adding another LLWS title to Taiwan's impressive record. This victory showcased the enduring strength of Taiwanese Little League programs.
1992: Long Beach L.L. (Long Beach, CA)
The Long Beach Little League from California claimed the title in 1992, bringing the championship back to the United States. This victory was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and coaches, further solidifying California's place in Little League World Series history.
1993: David Chiriqui L.L. (David, Panama)
The David Chiriqui Little League from Panama emerged victorious in 1993, marking a historic win for the country. This victory showcased the growing international presence in the tournament and the increasing competitiveness of teams from around the world.
1994: Coquivacoa L.L. (Maracaibo, Venezuela)
The Coquivacoa Little League from Venezuela claimed the title in 1994, bringing the championship to Venezuela. This victory highlighted the strong Little League programs in Venezuela and the dedication of its young players and coaches.
1995: Tainan L.L. (Tainan, Taiwan)
The Tainan Little League from Taiwan secured the championship in 1995, adding another LLWS title to Taiwan's impressive record. This victory showcased the enduring strength of Taiwanese Little League programs.
1996: Toms River East L.L. (Toms River, NJ)
The Toms River East Little League from New Jersey emerged victorious in 1996, bringing the title back to the United States. This victory was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and coaches, further solidifying New Jersey's place in Little League World Series history.
1997: Linda Vista L.L. (Guadalupe, Mexico)
The Linda Vista Little League from Mexico claimed the title in 1997, bringing the championship back to Mexico. This victory highlighted the strong Little League programs in Mexico and the dedication of its young players and coaches.
1998: Kizuna L.L. (Kashihara, Japan)
The Kizuna Little League from Japan emerged victorious in 1998, adding another win for Japan in the LLWS. This victory highlighted the strong Little League programs in Japan and the dedication of its young players and coaches.
1999: Phenix City National L.L. (Phenix City, AL)
The Phenix City National Little League from Alabama secured the championship in 1999, bringing the title back to the United States. This victory was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and coaches, further solidifying Alabama's place in Little League World Series history.
The 2000s: A New Era of Competition
The 2000s ushered in a new era of competition, marked by rule changes, increased international participation, and the rise of new Little League powerhouses. This decade brought thrilling games and unforgettable moments.
2000: Sierra Vista L.L. (Sierra Vista, AZ)
The Sierra Vista Little League from Arizona started the decade strong, winning the 2000 championship. This victory highlighted the growing talent in the southwestern United States and the competitive spirit of the Sierra Vista team.
2001: Tokyo Kitasuna L.L. (Tokyo, Japan)
The Tokyo Kitasuna Little League from Japan emerged victorious in 2001, adding another win for Japan in the LLWS. This victory highlighted the strong Little League programs in Japan and the dedication of its young players and coaches.
2002: Valley Sports American L.L. (Louisville, KY)
The Valley Sports American Little League from Kentucky claimed the title in 2002, bringing the championship back to the United States. This victory was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and coaches, further solidifying Kentucky's place in Little League World Series history.
2003: Musashi Fuchu L.L. (Tokyo, Japan)
The Musashi Fuchu Little League from Japan emerged victorious in 2003, adding another win for Japan in the LLWS. This victory highlighted the strong Little League programs in Japan and the dedication of its young players and coaches.
2004: Pabao L.L. (Willemstad, Curaçao)
The Pabao Little League from Willemstad, Curaçao, claimed the title in 2004, marking a historic win for the country. This victory showcased the growing international presence in the tournament and the increasing competitiveness of teams from around the world.
2005: West Oahu L.L. (Ewa Beach, HI)
The West Oahu Little League from Hawaii secured the championship in 2005, bringing the title back to the United States. This victory was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and coaches, further solidifying Hawaii's place in Little League World Series history.
2006: Columbus Northern L.L. (Columbus, GA)
The Columbus Northern Little League from Georgia emerged victorious in 2006, adding another win for the southern United States. This victory was a testament to the growing popularity and competitiveness of Little League baseball in Georgia.
2007: Warner Robins American L.L. (Warner Robins, GA)
The Warner Robins American Little League from Georgia claimed the title in 2007, continuing the state's recent success. This consecutive win underscored Georgia's strong Little League programs and the development of talented baseball players.
2008: Ocean View L.L. (Huntington Beach, CA)
The Ocean View Little League from California secured the championship in 2008, bringing the title back to the United States. This victory was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and coaches, further solidifying California's place in Little League World Series history.
2009: Aiea L.L. (Aiea, HI)
The Aiea Little League from Hawaii emerged victorious in 2009, adding another win for Hawaii in the LLWS. This victory highlighted the strong Little League programs in Hawaii and the dedication of its young players and coaches.
The 2010s: Modern Era and Global Talent
The 2010s represent the modern era of the Little League World Series, characterized by enhanced media coverage, increased global talent, and unforgettable moments. This decade showcased the continued growth and evolution of the tournament.
2010: Edogawa Minami L.L. (Tokyo, Japan)
The Edogawa Minami Little League from Japan started the decade strong, winning the 2010 championship. This victory highlighted the enduring strength of Japanese Little League programs and their commitment to excellence.
2011: Ocean Springs L.L. (Ocean Springs, MS)
The Ocean Springs Little League from Mississippi emerged victorious in 2011, bringing the title back to the United States. This victory was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and coaches, further solidifying Mississippi's place in Little League World Series history.
2012: Taney L.L. (Philadelphia, PA)
The Taney Little League from Pennsylvania, led by pitching sensation Mo'ne Davis, captured the hearts of fans worldwide, though they did not win the championship. Their inspiring run highlighted the talent and sportsmanship of the team and brought attention to the Little League program in Philadelphia.
2013: Lufkin L.L. (Lufkin, TX)
The Lufkin Little League from Texas claimed the title in 2017, bringing the championship back to the United States. This victory was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and coaches, further solidifying Texas's place in Little League World Series history.
2014: Seoul L.L. (Seoul, South Korea)
The Seoul Little League from South Korea emerged victorious in 2014, marking a historic win for the country. This victory showcased the growing international presence in the tournament and the increasing competitiveness of teams from around the world.
2015: Tokyo Kitasuna L.L. (Tokyo, Japan)
The Tokyo Kitasuna Little League from Japan claimed the title in 2015, bringing the championship back to Japan. This victory highlighted the strong Little League programs in Japan and the dedication of its young players and coaches.
2016: Maine-Endwell L.L. (Endwell, NY)
The Maine-Endwell Little League from New York secured the championship in 2016, bringing the title back to the United States. This victory was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and coaches, further solidifying New York's place in Little League World Series history.
2017: Lufkin L.L. (Lufkin, TX)
The Lufkin Little League from Texas claimed the title in 2017, bringing the championship back to the United States. This victory was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and coaches, further solidifying Texas's place in Little League World Series history.
2018: Honolulu L.L. (Honolulu, HI)
The Honolulu Little League from Hawaii secured the championship in 2018, marking another win for Hawaii and demonstrating the strength of their Little League program.
2019: Eastbank L.L. (River Ridge, LA)
The Eastbank Little League from River Ridge, Louisiana, clinched the title in 2019, adding another state to the list of LLWS champions and showcasing the talent in Louisiana.
2020s: Navigating Challenges and Celebrating Resilience
The 2020s have presented unique challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, which impacted the Little League World Series. However, the tournament has shown remarkable resilience, continuing to provide a platform for young athletes to showcase their talent and sportsmanship.
2021: Taylor North L.L. (Taylor, MI)
The Taylor North Little League from Michigan emerged victorious in 2021, bringing the title back to the United States after a challenging year. This victory symbolized the resilience of youth sports and the dedication of the players and coaches.
2022: Honolulu L.L. (Honolulu, HI)
In 2022, the Honolulu Little League from Hawaii once again claimed the championship, reaffirming their status as a powerhouse in youth baseball and adding another chapter to their impressive legacy.
2023: Needville L.L. (Needville, TX)
The Needville Little League from Texas triumphed in 2023, showcasing the growing strength of baseball in the Lone Star State and the dedication of its young athletes.
Conclusion
The Little League World Series has a rich and storied history, filled with remarkable achievements, unforgettable moments, and inspiring stories. From its humble beginnings in 1947 to its current status as a global phenomenon, the LLWS has provided a platform for young athletes to showcase their talent, sportsmanship, and teamwork. By examining the results year by year, we gain a deeper appreciation for the legacy of this beloved tournament and the countless individuals who have contributed to its success. The Little League World Series not only celebrates the sport of baseball but also promotes values of community, dedication, and international friendship. Each year's tournament adds a new chapter to this enduring legacy, inspiring future generations of players and fans alike.