Lower Sussex Little League - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is Little League?
Little League is a youth sports program that provides an opportunity for children to participate in baseball and softball. It is designed to teach the fundamentals of the game, teamwork, and sportsmanship in a positive and supportive environment.

2. What age groups are eligible for Little League?
Our Little League program offers a variety of divisions based on age. Typically, children between the ages of 4 and 16 can participate in our programs.
Specific age divisions include
T-Ball for 4-6 year old boys (this is co-ed)
Instructional League for 6-8 year olds baseball or softball
Minor League for 8-10 year olds offered as baseball and softball
Major League for 10-12 year olds offered as baseball and softball
Junior/Senior League for 13-16 years old
Please refer to the registration page for age requirements and details for each division. Please reference https://www.littleleague.org/play-little-league/determine-league-age/  for your child's correct league age. 

3. How do I register my child for the season?
You can register your child online through our website. Simply visit the registration page, fill out the form, and upload a copy of your child’s birth certificate during the process. Early registration is encouraged to take advantage of our special pricing!

4. What is the Early Bird Special?
The Early Bird Special is a discount offered to families who register their children before January 1, 2025. The cost is $85 plus a $3.50 processing fee. After January 1, 2025, the registration fee increases to $95 plus a $3.50 processing fee.

5. What happens if I miss the registration deadline?
If you miss the regular registration period (ending March 1, 2025), a late registration fee of $15 will apply. Late registration will be available until the final cutoff date of March 12, 2025.

6. Is there a refund policy? No Refunds

7. What is required during registration?

• A copy of your child’s birth certificate must be uploaded during the online registration process.
• Payment for registration fees, which can be made online.

8. What equipment will my child need?
Players are required to provide their own glove, shoes, bat and helmet. The league will provide uniforms (jerseys, and hats for baseball and jerseys and socks for softball). Cleats are strongly encouraged. Metal spikes are allowed for the Junior and Senior divison only.

9. When does the season begin and end?
The Little League season typically starts in early April and runs until the middle of June for the regular season ending in early to mid-June. Playoffs and championships may extend into late June or early July.

10. How can I volunteer to help?
Volunteers are always needed and appreciated! You can sign up to be a coach, assistant coach, team parent, or help with special events. Please visit our volunteer section on the website or contact our volunteer coordinator for more information. Addtionally, parents are to volunteer in the concession stand at least one time during the season for each team they have a player playing. 

11. Are there any fundraising requirements?
Little League often organizes fundraising events to support the league and keep costs down. Families may be asked to participate in fundraising activities or make a donation to help cover expenses such as equipment, uniforms, and field maintenance. Addtionally, parents are to volunteer in the concession stand at least one time during the season for each team they have a player playing. 

12. What if my child has never played before?
No problem! Little League is for players of all skill levels. Coaches work with each child to develop their skills, and the focus is on fun, learning, and teamwork. Whether your child is a beginner or has experience, there’s a place for them in our league. No matter the age. 

13. Will there be tryouts?
Some divisions, like the Minor and Major Leagues, may require tryouts to assess player skill levels and help assign players to teams. T-ball and younger divisions typically do not have tryouts. You will be notified if tryouts are required for your child’s division.

14. How are teams selected?
In divisions that require tryouts, teams are formed based on the evaluation of skills to ensure a balanced level of competition. In other divisions, team assignments may be based on age or previous experience. We strive for fairness in team placement, with the goal of promoting fun and development for all players.

15. Can my child play on the same team as their friend?
We try to accommodate special requests, such as placing friends or siblings on the same team in the tball level only.  However, due to league regulations and team balance, we cannot guarantee that specific requests will be honored. Please contact us with any team requests during registration.

16. What is the Challenger League?
The Challenger League is a special division designed for children with physical and intellectual disabilities. This league provides an opportunity for all children, regardless of ability, to participate in Little League Baseball and Softball in a supportive, non-competitive environment. The Challenger League focuses on fun, teamwork, and building self-confidence through baseball/softball activities, and is designed to be as inclusive as possible.

17. How can my child participate in the Challenger League?
If your child would like to participate in the Challenger League, you can register them just like any other Little League division through our online registration system. If you need more information or have questions about eligibility or support for your child, please contact our Challenger League coordinator at [email protected] 

18. How do I contact the league?
If you have any questions, concerns, or need assistance, feel free to reach out to us via email at [email protected] You can also visit our website for more detailed information and updates.

19. When are Games and Practices?
We understand that some players do multiple activities. Practices will run Monday- Friday from 5pm to 9pm and any time Saturday. Practices will be any where between one hour to and an hour and a half (depending on age group). Games will be played Monday- Saturday.  Weekday games begin at 6pm (expect the coach to request you to be there earlier to warm up). Saturdays will be for our younger age groups and games will be spread out over the day starting around 11am. (This will be mainly tee ball to permit them to play during warmer temperatures in April and May). Games will last about 1 hour and 45 minutes for all levels besides tee ball which is 45 minutes.

We look forward to seeing you and your child on the field this season!