The Carnegie Youth Athletic Association is again leading the way for kids to participate in baseball and softball summer leagues.

The association, which has been in existence for more than 20 years, now has teams for boys and girls between the ages of 4 and 16.

Kids 6 and under play in the T-ball instructional division and 7- and 8-year-olds are a part of the "coaches pitch" division.

A girls' fast pitch softball team has recently been added in the 9- and 10- year-old category, bringing a more competitive edge to a younger age bracket.

According to league treasurer Chris Mangum, the CYAA has more than 200 kids participating this summer, and 95 percent of them live in the Carlynton School District.

Mangum also manages a 10-and- under fast pitch softball team.

The baseball teams compete in the Greater Pittsburgh Area League and the softball teams are a part of the Chartiers Valley Community League. CYAA home games are played at Chioda Field and Seventh Avenue Park.

Although the regular season is about half over, some teams from the league will continue to play well into July. The first- and second-place teams in each division go on to the playoffs.

Following the playoffs, boys' and girls' all-star teams from each age group are selected. Players on the all-star teams get the opportunity to travel and play in tournaments to finish out the summer.

Over the years, the CYAA has been fueled by community support and the assistance of local businesses.

"Our local sponsors really act as the glue that holds the league together," said Mangum.

Area businesses provide funding that enables the purchase of team equipment and banners, among other things.

The league also serves as a meeting ground for kids of different boroughs. "The summer league presents an opportunity for young kids from Carnegie, Rosslyn Farms and Crafton to become friends long before they're put together in high school," said Dave Oddi, Carlynton's athletic director.

For rosters, standings and full schedules, please visit www.leaguelineup.com/carnegie.