Every summer, as the crack of the bat echoes across Williamsport, Pennsylvania, a fleet of buses pulls up to transport young athletes from around the world to the stage of their dreams.
Behind those buses is Susquehanna Trailways, a company that has been ensuring the smooth flow of the Little League World Series for over four decades.
What began in the 1980s as a small-scale operation — transferring teams to and from airports for a seven-day event — has grown with the tournament. Now, the World Series spans 10 days and features 20 teams, some arriving a week in advance. The logistical demands have expanded significantly, and Susquehanna has met those challenges every step of the way.
Amy Brooks, Vice President of Sales at Susquehanna Trailways, said the relationship with Little League is about more than just transportation.
“We’ve been proud to grow alongside this incredible event,” she said. “It’s not just about moving people from one place to another; it’s about being part of something bigger – building a tradition with every mile we cover.”
Growing role
Little League, established in 1947 in Williamsport, is the oldest global youth sports organization, drawing in teams from across the world. Susquehanna Trailways has been integral to this international affair, not just transporting teams, but also helping coordinate logistics for the families, fans, and media who flood the small town each year.
The partnership began with the simple task of transporting teams from airports, but today, it’s far more complex. Teams now arrive not only from international airports but also from regional sites such as Indianapolis and Bristol, Connecticut. The company also supports various auxiliary needs, such as family travel, team visits to major ballparks in cities like New York, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh, and amusement park outings.
Susquehanna Trailways partners with the local American Automobile Association (AAA), which coordinates the transportation for the Little League teams while Susquehanna provides the ground support.
“We have had a long lasting relationship with them as well and work especially close during that time to not only coordinate, but anticipate their needs,” Brooks said.
The third-generation business has been a proud sponsor of several Little League baseball and softball teams on at the local level nearly since Susquehanna Trailways began in 1936.
Beyond the games themselves, one of the tournament’s most exciting modern traditions is the Little League Classic, which has taken place every year for the past seven years. This event, held at Journey Bank Stadium at Historic Bowman Field, brings two Major League Baseball teams to Williamsport to play in front of the Little Leaguers.
This year’s Classic featured the New York Yankees and the Detroit Tigers.
For the young athletes, it’s a dream come true – not only do they get to watch their MLB heroes up close, but they also ride the bus with them to the Little League complex, bringing an extra layer of excitement as the Little Leaguers mingle with their idols.
“For the kids, it’s an unforgettable experience,” Brooks said. “And for the Major Leaguers, many of whom never had the chance to play here, it’s a way to relive their childhood dreams.”
Teamwork, collaboration
The success of such a high-stakes event depends on seamless coordination. Brooks credited the entire Susquehanna team for its dedication.
“It takes everyone from dispatchers, operators, and the pre-trip staff to work together to ensure everything runs smoothly,” Brooks explained.
Susquehanna’s involvement in the World Series has provided work for Trailways members across the country, supporting not just the Williamsport event , but also assisting with other Little League tournaments nationwide. Through these collaborations, the company has built long-lasting relationships.
For Brooks and the Susquehanna team, the Little League World Series is more than just another job; it’s a tradition that’s grown into something meaningful.
“It’s about relationships,” Brooks said. “We’re proud to be part of something that brings people together, year after year, in a celebration of youth, sportsmanship, and community.”
