BIG League Sports

Citiparks Pittsburgh BIG League Sports is a cooperative effort between Citiparks, Boys & Girls Clubs of Western Pennsylvania, the Pittsburgh Pirates, the Pittsburgh Penguins, and the Roberto Clemente Foundation. The shared goal is to create comprehensive recreational programs that will provide increased quality athletic and education opportunities in Pittsburgh neighborhoods. Established in 1994, BIG League Sports now hosts a variety of programs that include baseball, softball, hockey, soccer and special programs for teams. BIG League has been called “the nation’s largest and most comprehensive inner city youth sports program.”

For details concerning any of the programs and competitions listed below, contact BIG League Sports at 412-488-8585.

Sponsored by the Pittsburgh Pirates, the Pittsburgh Penguins, the Roberto Clemente Foundation, A.D. Starr Sports, and Boys & Girls Clubs.

Baseball/ Softball Programs

Junior Pirates/ Rookie Ball
(boys and girls 4 - 8)

Send your child to this instructional baseball program offered at 25 sites throughout the City. Children move through stations for hitting, throwing, fielding and base running. All Junior Pirates participants are honored on a special Junior Pirates Day at PNC Park, courtesy of the Pittsburgh Pirates. Hats and shirts are provided by individual Pirates players.

Mayor’s Cup Pony League Baseball
(boys ages 13 – 14)

More than 20 teams from throughout the City of Pittsburgh participate in this very competitive league, with the championship game played at PNC Park.

Mayor’s Cup Colt League Baseball
(boys ages 15 – 16)

This league, introduced in 1996, is an excellent example of a successful program that encourages youth to remain active on ballfields during the summer. This championship game is also held at PNC Park.

Mayor’s Cup Super Colt League Baseball
(boys ages 16 – 18)

This wooden bat only league was introduced in 2000. These teams also compete for an opportunity to play the championship game at PNC Park.

Mayor's Cup Girls Softball Leagues
(various age groups offered)

This initiative, introduced in 1998, provides girls with an opportunity to hone their skills and compete against others. Make it to the championship game and, like the boys, you’ll play ball at PNC Park!

Baseball Competitions

Mayor’s Cup Little League Tournament
(boys ages 10 – 12)

The championship team from each community’s respective league is invited to compete throughout the City in mid-July for an opportunity to reach PNC Park and the title of “City’s Best.”
(Please note: This is not an all-star tournament.)

Hockey Programs

Street PALs Program
(boys and girls ages 6 – 14)

Big League Sports teams up with the Pittsburgh Penguins to offer street hockey instructional programs. Instruction and equipment are provided at several sites. Call BIG League Sports for locations.

Soccer Programs

Fall Soccer
(boys and girls ages 9 – 18)

Teams from various communities participate in this citywide league that operates three age groups. Games are played at the Schenley Oval Sportsplex and fields located throughout the City.