Stotz Scholarship Recipients Honored by Little League

WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. (May 22, 2007) – Carl Stotz envisioned a game played by children and rooted in good citizenship when he founded Little League Baseball in 1939.

That goal continues to be the driving force behind Little League today. Accordingly, the Little League International Board of Directors established the Carl E. Stotz Little League Baseball Scholarship to reward academic excellence and citizenship with higher education financial assistance. This is the 14th year of the scholarship program, during which more than $75,000 in financial assistance toward higher education has been awarded to more than 90 Lycoming County students.

Scholarships totaling $8,000 are awarded annually to five male and five female graduates of Lycoming County high schools. These scholarships 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 Michael Stratton and Elyssa Okkelberg of Williamsport Area High School. Mr. Stratton will attend The University of Pennsylvania, while Miss Okkelberg is undecided on what college or university she will attend. They were chosen from a group of 10 finalists who, in turn, were chosen from among 56 who applied.

“With good citizenship as its cornerstone, Carl Stotz created an opportunity and answered a need when he founded Little League,” Stephen D. Keener, president and chief executive officer of Little League Baseball and Softball, said. “Each year, similar selflessness, determination and inspiration is recognized with the presentation of these scholarships. It is our pleasure to acknowledge the efforts of the recipients and honor their accomplishments.”

Receiving $500 scholarships are: Michael Shipman and Tysa Stiber (Loyalsock Township High School); Tyler Moyer and Jed Ritter (Hughesville Area High School); Ashley Rachael (South Williamsport Area High School); Kara Metz (Williamsport Area High School); Mark Montanye (Muncy Area High School); and Rebecca Nau (Jersey Shore Area High School).

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