Little League® International is pleased to announce that Sam Ranck, Senior Executive, Strategy, has joined the Pitch In For Baseball & Softball (PIFBS) Advisory Council, further strengthening a relationship between the two organizations that has helped provide opportunities and resources to baseball and softball programs for more than two decades.
Recently elevated to Little League Senior Executive, Strategy, Ranck today leads organizational strategic planning efforts focused on strengthening the Little League program and expanding opportunities for children to experience the benefits of baseball and softball. Since joining Little League’s full-time staff in 2007, he has held leadership roles across league development, organizational strategy, and the Little League Challenger Division®, while also playing an integral role in the development and launch of the Little League Diamond Leader Training Program as part of the Million Coaches Challenge.
“Throughout my career at Little League, I have seen firsthand how access to the right resources can make a meaningful difference for a child, a family, and an entire community,” said Ranck. “Pitch In For Baseball & Softball has been an important partner in helping programs overcome barriers and create opportunities for children to play. I’m honored to join the Advisory Council and look forward to working alongside its members to help strengthen that impact for communities around the world.”
Little League’s relationship with PIFBS dates back to the organization’s earliest years. Among the first projects the organizations worked on together were efforts to support dozens of Little League programs along the Gulf Coast that lost equipment and other resources following Hurricane Katrina. More than 20 years later, that shared commitment continues through efforts designed to ensure communities have access to the equipment and resources necessary to provide meaningful baseball and softball experiences. In 2023, Little League received the 2023 PIFBS MVP Award, and in 2025 was honored at the PIFBS 20th Anniversary Gala for 20 years of impact.
“Sam has spent nearly two decades focused on creating opportunities for children and strengthening the local programs that make those experiences possible,” said Meredith Kim, Pitch In For Baseball & Softball CEO. “His experience in organizational strategy, program development, and removing barriers to participation will bring an important perspective to our Advisory Council as we continue working to get more equipment into the hands of children and programs that need it most.”
Since 2005, PIFBS has made it possible for 2.6 million underserved children in all 50 states and 120 countries to enjoy the games they love. By distributing more than $46 million worth of equipment, the Philadelphia-based nonprofit has broken down barriers, promoted environmental responsibility through equipment recycling, and brought the joy of play to kids around the world. Through its Advisory Council, the organization brings together leaders and advocates who can provide expertise, perspective, and support for the organization’s efforts to increase access to the game.