Bat Grant Update:
The application period for the USABat Kit Grants from Little League International has closed. ALL LEAGUES which have applied for a Bat Grant will be notified via email by mid-February.
Leagues and families are encouraged to visit USA Baseball’s website for information on the USABat Standard and list of approved bats.
Individual families are also encouraged to visit their local retailer, such as DICK’S Sporting Goods, to purchase USABat Standard bats as well.
In an effort to assist local Little League® programs in the adoption of the new USABat Standard, Little League International, through the Little League Grow the Game Grant Program and with additional support from DICK’S Sporting Goods, will be granting a limited number of USABat Standard “bat kits” from Easton Sports to local leagues in need.
Starting December 15, local leagues that are chartered for the 2018 season and in good standing with Little League International will be eligible to apply for the Bat Grant program by visiting LittleLeague.org/BatGrant. Please note that a local league official, as recognized through the Little League Data Center, should submit the application on behalf of the league and the application must be signed by the League President.
Eligible leagues that are approved for this grant will receive a “bat kit” that consists of 20 pre-selected Easton bats at various sizes and weights, all of which are compliant with the new USABat Standard and approved for use in the Little League Baseball® program. Local leagues will be presented with physical bats, not a financial grant to purchase these bats.
With a limited number of bat kits available, applications will be reviewed based on merit upon submission and kits will be appropriately provided to eligible leagues in need. Please note that there are a limited number of grants available, and leagues are encouraged to apply as soon as possible for consideration.
The USA Baseball USABat Standard will officially be implemented in all Little League Baseball programs at the Junior League division and below, effective January 1, 2018. The majority of parents, coaches, and volunteers believe wood is the ideal material for bats. The new USABat Standard bats are designed to have a wood-like performance, while having the benefits of a non-wood bat.
For more information on the bat grant program, including how to apply your local league, visit LittleLeague.org/BatGrant. For additional information on the USABat Standard, visit USABat.com.