History of UHO Kickball

Background

Established in 1974, the University Hills Optimist (UHO) Little Miss Kickball league (or simply, “UHO Kickball”) is a sports organization for young ladies, 4-18. Through kickball, UHO provides a game that’s easy to learn, highly-competitive, and useful for developing young girls physically, mentally, and socially.

UHO Kickball helps young girls to build confidence in themselves, to exercise regularly, to learn sportsmanship and teamwork, to grow and demonstrate respect for peers and authority figures, and to become positive examples to their generation. Additionally, UHO Kickball encourages parents to get involved, whether as coaches, officials, or just energetic, active supporters for their girls.

The Genesis and History of UHO Kickball

In the spring of 1974, parents recently moved from Corpus Christi approached UHO, questioning why it did not have a program for young ladies. The parents suggested that perhaps UHO could develop a kickball league similar to the one which operated in Corpus Christi. The kickball league, of course, was Little Miss Kickball.

While on business, a UHO Optimist, Ed Reznicek, stopped in Corpus Christi to watch a Little Miss Kickball game. After watching the game, visiting with some league officials, and acquiring a rule book, Reznicek came back to Austin, recommending the formation of a Little Miss Kickball League to the UHO Board of Directors.

The Board approved the recommendation, resulting in the formation of the first Little Miss Kickball league in Austin.
At that time, the league consisted of only 4 teams, with players ranging 8 to 16 years in age. Mr. Reznicek was appointed as the first UHO Kickball president.

• In 1975, the league expanded to 4 Junior teams and 4 Senior teams.
• In 1976, UHO added 2 Teenage teams.
• In 1983, UHO added the Rookie division.

In the early 80’s Mr. Reznicek petitioned Little Miss Kickball to allow UHO to host its state kickball tournament at Reznicek Field. Little Miss Kickball granted the request and UHO hosted the first Little Miss Kickball State Tournament outside of the Corpus Christi area. Since that time UHO has hosted 2 more State Kickball Tournaments with the last being in 2006.