If I could pick one core value that embodies who I am and what the Little League® program is all about, it’s community. Growing up in New Jersey, the community always played a prominent role in my life, whether I was practicing my corner kicks at the soccer field, running out onto the softball diamond with my teammates, or cheering on the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium.
Throughout my experiences with sports, it was never the wins and losses that mattered to me most; it was the impact. Sports gave me a deep appreciation for how much they matter to kids, families, and communities all over the world. The competition brings out the best in youth athletes, specifically, the ability to express themselves, build relationships, and grow individually. I didn’t know it early on, but that appreciation of sports would quietly follow me throughout my life.
When it comes to Little League, my path came at the right time. I went to school at Penn College here in Williamsport and built a career as a paralegal at some of our local law firms. At the time, I enjoyed what I did, but I always felt I could do more for my community. That is when I saw the opportunity at Little League. At first, I was a little hesitant, but as I learned more about what Little League’s mission and core values are all about, leaping to join the Risk Management Department in an area focused on safety and child protection was a no-brainer.
Ever since I took the position, I never looked back. Every day, I get to see our mission in action and truly feel the impact we are making on communities.
Today, as a Paralegal and SAFE Specialist for Little League, I am primarily responsible for areas regarding safety, legal support, and anything surrounding risk management for both our local leagues and the overall organization. One of my favorite parts about my day-to-day responsibilities is my involvement in our newly launched Little League SAFE and Little League Safe to Play initiatives. Overseeing the program that provides an environment where youth athletes and families feel safe while enjoying the sport they love is a big aspect of what keeps me motivated.
Then, in the summer, like the rest of the team, I get to be part of the Little League Baseball® World Series, where everyone steps outside their comfort zone. During the series, I work with our ushers. If I am being honest, it is my favorite thing about what I do. Our ushers’ dedication and love for Little League is contagious, and their energy embodies what Little League is in its purest form.
What keeps me coming back after all these years in this position is simple – the community at Little League is unlike any other. Little League is more than baseball and softball; it is about creating a safe environment for athletes, making memories, and being part of something that is so much bigger than us.
If I had to give a piece of advice for future generations, it would be to focus on the bigger picture of what you are doing and feel the impact of your work. Always be open to trying new things, learning, and don’t be afraid of a new opportunity. Most importantly, build connections and relationships, and don’t be afraid to put yourself out there.
You might just surprise yourself in some of the incredible communities you may end up in.
This feature is part of a series of Little League International Staff Spotlights, highlighting the career journey of the organization’s employees, which began during Little League’s Girls with Game 50 (#GWG50) Celebration (LittleLeague.org/GWG50) in 2024.