In the summer of 1951, in Washington, Pennsylvania, a vision took root: to bridge the gap between Little League and regulation-sized baseball. This vision materialized as the Pony League, a program designed for 13 and 14-year-old players. The concept was simple yet powerful, providing a crucial transitional stage for young athletes. Word of mouth proved to be a potent catalyst, and by the end of the second season in 1952, the initial six teams in Washington had mushroomed to 511 teams across 106 leagues nationwide. This explosive growth culminated in the first Pony League World Series, a testament to the program's burgeoning popularity.

Key Figures and the Evolution of Age Divisions

Central to PONY's early success was Lew Hays, a sports editor who became the league's first Commissioner in 1953, upon its national incorporation. He served in this role until 1964, when he became President, leaving an indelible mark on the organization.

The expansion of age divisions was driven by a desire to provide age-appropriate competition. In 1953, John Laslo, Mayor of Martins Ferry, Ohio, collaborated with Hays to create the Colt League for 15 and 16-year-olds, addressing the need for competition at the regulation diamond level. This led to the 1959 merger of Pony and Colt Leagues.

Further expansion followed:

• Bronco League (1961): Catering to 11 and 12-year-olds, it provided a stepping stone between smaller fields and regulation diamonds.
• Mustang (1970) and Pinto (1970s): Developed for younger players (9-10 and 7-8 respectively), these leagues introduced foundational baseball skills.
• Palomino (1977) and Thorobred (1973, re-established in 2015): These leagues offered opportunities for older players, with Thorobred providing a place for those up to age 23.
• Shetland (1990) and Foal (2020): These leagues provided organized baseball for the very young, ages 5-6, and 3-4, respectively.

PONY Softball: Expanding Opportunities for Girls

Recognizing the growing interest in girls' sports, PONY Baseball introduced PONY Softball in 1976. This program mirrors the baseball age divisions, ensuring equitable opportunities for female athletes.

Emblems, Mission, and Leadership

The iconic PONY emblem has undergone changes, but the core image of the pony and the mission "Protect Our Nation's Youth" have remained constant. This mission, reflected in the acronym PONY, emphasizes the organization's commitment to youth development.

Joe E. Brown, a renowned entertainer, served as PONY's first president, lending his celebrity and enthusiasm to the program's growth. Lew Hays's dedication spanned decades, and his leadership extended to the U.S. Olympic Committee, where he advocated for baseball's inclusion in the Olympic Games.

A Legacy of Volunteerism and Impact

PONY's success is a testament to the countless volunteers, coaches, and supporters who have dedicated their time and resources to youth sports. These individuals, often working without recognition, have shaped the lives of countless young athletes. Today, with over 500,000 participants annually, PONY Baseball & Softball continues to uphold its founding principles, providing opportunities for youth development through the sport of baseball and softball.