Holiday Message

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December 18, 2008

Dear Little League Volunteer,

As we approach the very special time of year when we enjoy the company of family and good friends, I want to take just a moment to express my personal appreciation for the volunteer leadership you provide the Little League program.

Without the extraordinary efforts of District Administrators, Assistant District Administrators and more than a million local league officials and volunteers, the Little League program could not maintain its respected status as the leader in the youth sports universe. At Little League International we recognize that our volunteers are the foundation strength of this incredible movement and we can never say thank you enough.
 
The 2008 Little League season was a great success by many standards. The Confederation of European Baseball (CEB), the governing body of baseball in Europe, began its relationship with Little League, 29 leagues and nearly 2,800 children in Australia joined the Little League program, and Little League launched its new website and a free on-line Coach Resource Center.
 
Obviously, we hope these positive trends continue into 2009. With your help they can, and we are here to help you. Please don’t hesitate to call upon the professional staff in Williamsport, or at your regional office for assistance. We have a very capable team of people ready to help with all aspects of league and district operations.
 
There’s more good news on the way. In 2009, Little League will formally re-locate its Southeast Region Headquarters, unveil renovations to the Little League International Administration building and Howard J. Lamade Stadium in Williamsport, and have a larger number of Little League International Tournament games on live television, including the Big League Baseball and Softball World Series Championship games.

Understanding the fiscal challenges that come with operating a local Little League in the current economic climate, Little League International is increasing the number of free background checks available to our leagues, so that the average size Little League will be able to conduct background checks free of any additional charges.

We appreciate the thousands of you who will make the sacrifices necessary to provide millions of children with the Little League experience in 2009. This spirit of giving is a testament to the value of the Little League program, and it is the reason we are optimistic about the memories and successes that are to come with the 2009 Little League season.
 
In the meantime, I want to thank you again for another great Little League year, and send my warmest wishes to you and your families for a safe, healthy and happy holiday season.
 
Stephen D. Keener
 
President and Chief Executive Officer
Little League Baseball and Softball International