Debbie Esenwein

The Little League Mom of the Year Award was established in 1991 as a symbolic form of recognition and tribute to the millions of mothers in communities around the world who contribute their time to the Little League program.

“No volunteer goes about donating their time without some sacrifices being made, yet Debbie Esenwein has managed the responsibilities to herself and her family, while still making Little League a priority in her life,” said Stephen D. Keener, president and chief executive officer of Little League Baseball and Softball. “The children of the Columbiana Youth Baseball Little League can be proud of Mrs. Esenwein, because she stands as a fine example of what can be done when a person is dedicated to helping others.”

Each year Little Leaguers compose an essay that explains why their mothers should be the Little League Mom of the Year. From that group, one Little League mother is selected. Nominated by her son, Ryan, Mrs. Esenwein will receive the award at the Little League Baseball World Series in Williamsport, Pa., scheduled for Aug. 20-29.

Little League Baseball and Softball is the world’s largest organized youth sports program, with nearly 2.7 million players and 1 million adult volunteers in every U.S. state and scores of other countries.