In 2004, New Jersey District 12 established the Jim Davis Cup, an award presented annually to the league that wins the 12-year-old District 12 Baseball Tournament. Named in memory of the late Trentonian sports reporter Jim Davis, the award honors his enduring legacy of support for youth baseball. Similar to the Stanley Cup, this prestigious award travels from league to league, with each year's District 12 Champion's name engraved upon it.
The presidents of District 12 Little League also established the Jim Davis Sportsmanship Award to recognize outstanding character and fair play. Each member league of District 12 nominates one 12-year-old baseball player and one 12-year-old softball player annually to receive this honor. This award embodies Jim Davis' belief that every young athlete deserves recognition, not just the all-stars. All nominees are honored at pre-game ceremonies of the District 12 Championship Baseball and Softball games.
While the method of selecting league representatives is determined by each local league, recipients of the Jim Davis Sportsmanship Award are selected using the following criteria:
- Helps other players: Shows a willingness to assist teammates and opponents alike.
- Always tries hard: Demonstrates consistent effort and dedication.
- Displays enthusiasm and team spirit: Contributes to a positive and supportive team environment.
- Sets a good example: Serves as a role model for other players through their actions and attitude.
- Plays fair at all times: Adheres to the rules of the game and maintains a spirit of sportsmanship.
- Is a graceful loser: Accepts defeat with dignity and composure.
- Doesn’t argue with the umpires: Respects the authority of game officials.
- Is polite and courteous: Treats everyone with kindness and respect.
- Always does what team manager asks: Is a cooperative and responsive team member.
- Is a team player: Prioritizes the success of the team over individual achievements.
Lawrence Little League Jim Davis Award Recipients
2024 Lynn Kriegel and Robert Gorczynski
2023 Annabelle Hauger and Patrick Alfieri
2022 Bailey Schafer and Harrison Petrick
2021 Talya Weiss and Max Edgar
2020 Connor Willever
2019 Katie Mulry and Nick Sutter
2018 Isa Martinez and Dan Dryzga