Abner Doubleday is credited with inventing the game of baseball in the late 1800's, but we won't go back quite that far.

In 1979, a baseball league in Franklin Township, Pennsylvania was formed by Larry Ahner who served as the first president. Three teams made from 34 players ages 11-12 played as an independent league playing teams who were already chartered as Little League teams from Jim Thorpe, Lansford and Summit Hill. Sponsored by Jim Thorpe, Franklin Township became a chartered member of Little League International in 1982.

In the beginning, all games were played at what is now Christman Field (a Babe Ruth League facility). Christman Field is named in memory of a former Franklin Township baseball player, Lance Corporal Ronald C.F. Christman who gave his life for our country in Vietnam in 1968. All tournament and all-star games were played at Jim Thorpe's Little League field because Christman Field did not meet Little League regulation standards.

In 1983, the Babe Ruth program was started playing in the Carbon-Schuylkill Teener League. Franklin Township applied for and received charter status witthe Babe Ruth League headquartered in Trenton, NJ.

In 1985, Phifer Field was initially built with snow fences in the outfield and foul lines. A year later, the backstop and fencing were installed and lights were added in 1988. All of this was done through money raised by the league and the cooperation of the township supervisors.

In 1987, the Franklin Township Athletic Association was officially established and Wayne Wentz (who, incidentally, knew Abner Doubleday personally) became president and continues to serve in this capacity to this day.

In 1988, Christman Field underwent renovations including the addition of lights to both fields. The Junior Babe Ruth League plays in the Carbon Babe Ruth League and at the end of the season, Franklin selects All-Star teams from Franklin, Jim Thorpe and East Penn. There is one All-Star team for 13 year olds, 14 year olds and 15 year olds. The Senior Babe Ruth League was formed in 1993 and competes in the Valley League located in Hazleton, PA. Franklin Township Hurricanes of 2009 was the league champions.Coached by Rick Strohl.

In 1992, the softball program was formed by Joe Cortez and Jeff Shellhammer. They also played as an independent team until being chartered by the Amateur Softball Association of America (ASA) in 1998. Franklin Township's softball program has accelerated to becoming National Champions in 2004 by winning the Keystone Games final held in Connecticut.

Today, Franklin Township Athletic Association boasts over 40 teams and over 500 players. We have lights at three fields and in 2008 expanded and upgraded our two primary facilities. Over the years, we have accumulated many district championship awards and our organization has become well-respected baseball entity throughout the region.

On behalf of our kids, your continued support is greatly appreciated!