On thousands of Little League® diamonds around the world, coaches teach their players the importance of striving to win and picking themselves up after a loss.
The loss we all feel today is unimaginable.
As the world marks the second anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic, our Little League communities and families around the world continue to face unprecedented loss, adversity, and hardship. Much of our society has been changed significantly over the course of these two years, yet when faced with such difficulties, sports and Little League fields have been places where communities come together.
As Little Leaguers® around the world hit the field this season, it can feel like all of us are facing a full count with the game on the line.
Yet, it’s on these Little League fields that players often learn many of life’s challenges and work, as a team, to face them and overcome them.
These are the moments when developing on-field skills are important but supporting the emotional and mental well-being of our players, families, and volunteers are paramount.
As we support our global Little League communities, we are committed to working through our Europe and Africa Region operations staff in Kutno, Poland, to support the players and families in our 11 Little League programs in Ukraine, and throughout Europe, during this difficult time. To our Ukrainian Little Leaguers and families, we think of your safety every day, and we are here to help you get back on the ballfield as soon you are able. Little League International joins millions around the world in hoping for a peaceful resolution in Ukraine.
Entering the heart of the 2022 Little League season, it’s more important than ever that we all – players, volunteers, families, and communities – rally together.
Whether you’re brushed back from the high-and-tight fastball, give up the game winning hit, or commit the costly error, there is always the next play, the next game, the next series.
Ultimately, a win or loss during the Little League season is unimportant. The outcome of a Little League game really doesn’t matter. What matters is that players and adults alike learn and grow from the experience, have fun, and keep swinging.
While there are so many concerns facing our Little League families and communities during this challenging time, this is the time of year that Little League programs can bring neighborhoods to life and provide hope. Neighbors gather. Families and players connect with friends and teammates. We believe in the power of youth baseball and softball to teach life lessons that build stronger individuals and communities while supporting the dreams of Little Leaguers everywhere. One Team. One Little League.