NWLL Baseball Division Guide for Parents
Choosing the Right League: Skill Often Matters More Than Age
Divisions have recommended age ranges, but experience and skill level are often more important for the best player experience.
- A first-time 6 or 7-year-old may be best in Tee-Ball for All or Single A.
- A strong 7 or 8-year-old may be ready for AA.
- A new 9-year-old might fit better in AA, while an advanced 9-year-old is often ready for AAA.
If you’re unsure - especially with first-time players - please reach out to Scott Anderson, VP of Baseball at [email protected] so we can help place your child appropriately.
NWLL Divisions Table
Division | Typical Ages | Skill Level / Best For |
Tee-Ball for All | 4–5 | Very young or first-time players; introduction to the sport and focuses on fun, basic skills, and coordination. Tee hits only. A good option even for older first-time players needing confidence. |
Single A | 5–6 | Early baseball experience with light structure. Ideal for kids who are still developing coordination and baseball fundamentals. |
AA | 7–8 | Transitional baseball with machine-pitch ~37mph. Introduces defensive positions and game flow. Great for strong 6 or 7-year-olds or developing 8-9 year-olds. |
AAA | 9–10 | First full player-pitch division. Players should catch and throw consistently and be comfortable batting against live pitching. Suitable for strong 8s, most 9s, and developing 10s. |
Majors | 11–12 (some strong 10s may play up) | Highest standard Little League level. Strong fundamentals, field awareness, and consistent hitting required. Faster play and advanced rules. |
Intermediate (13U) | 12–13 | Bridge between Little League and larger-field baseball. Larger field dimensions and advanced rules. Great for players ready for a bigger challenge. |
Juniors (14U) | 13–14 | Played on a larger diamond with higher competition. Good for players preparing for high-school-level baseball. |
Seniors | 14–16 | Competitive baseball for older teens on full-sized fields. Ideal for players supplementing school teams or seeking continued development. |
Challenger Division | 5–16 | Adaptive and inclusive baseball for players with intellectual or physical challenges. Emphasizes fun, teamwork, and participation at any experience level. |
NOTE: Little League International All-Star age rules are based on a player's "league age," which is determined by a specific age cutoff date for baseball (August 31). Local leagues form separate All-Star teams for different age groups, such as 8-10, 9-11, or 10-12 for the Major Division, with specific age brackets depending on the local league's structure and the division of play. Players are also required to meet residency or school attendance requirements within the local league's boundaries to be eligible for All-Star selection. A player playing below the typical age range will not be eligible for All-Star selection or play if they do not meet Little League International’s age eligibility requirements.