Why Little League?

When we established our league four years ago, we chose LL, primarily because it provides a ready-made administrative structure and rules format for you. There is no debate about rules. You just follow the LL rulebook. LL also provides you a league operating manual, guidance on setting up a constitution and coaching/umpire certification. Of course, the opportunity to compete in the all-star competition, with a shot at the World Series, was a fun thought for the dreamers among us.

There are lots of good organizations out there and LL is just one of them. No other league is sanctioned near us, which would make things difficult. We are an overseas league and LL does a good (not great) job of reaching out to its foreign leagues.

There can be abuses with a LL program, but I would think there would be more oppotunities for foul play in an independent program that had no higher admin rules to follow or group to answer to. The biggest frustration we have with LL is that they are very reluctant to let you play non-LL games. You have to apply for permission from Williamsport. They almost always approve, but it's a pain to deal with the paperwork.

Having said all that, my advice to you is "If it works, don't fix it." If your formula is accomplishing your league's objecives, why change? If things are working well for you, just keep having fun!