WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. (May 25, 2004) – In creating much more than merely a game of bats and balls, Carl Stotz sought to construct a program that had good citizenship at its core when he founded Little League Baseball in 1939.

That goal continues to be the driving force behind Little League today. Accordingly, the Little League Baseball International Board of Directors established the Carl E. Stotz Little League Baseball Scholarship Aid Fund to reward academic excellence. This is the 11th year of the scholarship program, during which more than $50,000 in financial assistance toward higher education has been awarded to more than 50 Lycoming County students.

Scholarships totaling $8,000 are awarded annually to five male and five female graduates of Lycoming County high schools, to perpetuate the memory of Little League’s founder, recognizing his commitment to the development of the young people of Lycoming County, Pa. All graduating seniors in the top 25 percent of their class who have demonstrated good citizenship and whose spirit exemplifies effort, determination and persistence in attaining the goal of higher education, are eligible to apply.

This year’s top recipients of $2,000 each are Cong Ma and Anna Douthat, both of Williamsport Area High School. Mr. Ma will attend Yale University, while Miss Douthat will attend Princeton University. They were chosen from a group of 10 finalists who, in turn, were chosen from among 53 who applied.

“Those recognized by the Carl Stotz Scholarship are a credit to their schools, their communities and their families,” said Stephen D. Keener, president and chief executive officer of Little League Baseball and Softball. “All are fine examples of the young people who are expected to lead us in the future. Today, it is our pleasure to acknowledge their efforts and honor their accomplishments.”

Receiving $500 each are: Todd Belles and Patrick Tobin (Williamsport), Kristen Kane and Kelly Reilly (South Williamsport), Joshua Gardner, Jennifer Fritz and Brooke Miller (Hughesville) and Michael Helminiak (Bishop Neumann).

Announcement of all recipients of financial aid through the Carl E. Stotz Little League Baseball Scholarship Aid Fund was made today at an annual luncheon at Little League International.