Our Story
Walter “Pop” Smith Little League serves the vibrant communities of Dixwell, Newhall Ville, Hill, East Rock, Downtown New Haven, West River, and Westville. Our mission is to nurture the growth of children, ages 4-12, by teaching them fundamental baseball skills, promoting teamwork, and fostering sportsmanship from T-ball to Major League. Through our dedicated volunteer coaching staff, children progress at their own pace, learning valuable life skills that extend far beyond the field.
Many of the children we serve come from neighborhoods with high populations of “at-risk” youth, and we believe that through sports, they can gain leadership, teamwork, and life skills that will help them as they grow into young adults. Walter “Pop” Smith Little League continues to be a source of normalcy and a beacon of hope in these communities.
As we continue to grow, we rely on the generosity of volunteers and donors to maintain and enhance the program. Your support helps us upgrade equipment, recruit volunteers, and provide a healthy, safe environment for our children to learn and grow. Together, we can ensure that future generations of players have the same opportunities to thrive.
With your support we have been able to show change on and off our fields. We have been able to build two new outdoor batting cages. Our upcoming goals and planning would include our athletes attend more clinics and trainings with your support.
On behalf of the hundreds of kids that take the field with us each year, thank you for your support!