Welcome to the
2025 Little League Season
in Virginia District 9
A Message from Andi Smith, your District Administrator
Welcome to the 2025 Little League Season in Virginia District 9. As your District Administrator, I am honored to join the 15 other District Administrators in Virginia and the 72 others in the Southeast Region. Together, we continue to be part of one of the strongest and best-run Little League programs in the world, thanks to the unwavering commitment of our dedicated volunteers.
Little League has a rich history that started over 75 years ago in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. It was here that Carl Stotz, along with Bert and George Bebble, gathered local boys to form neighborhood teams, laying the foundation for what would become a global phenomenon. In 1974, Little League expanded its inclusive spirit by welcoming girls into the program, a milestone that allowed countless young athletes to join in the experience. This year, approximately two million boys and girls from all 50 states and more than 80 countries will be playing Little League Baseball and Softball.
Your all-volunteer Board of Directors has been diligently working for months to prepare for the 2025 season. They have coordinated with local governments to ensure access to the fields your ballplayer will be using. They have recruited managers, coaches, and umpires to guarantee that your ballplayer will have a rewarding and memorable experience. They have meticulously created schedules for practices and games, searched for sponsors, and ordered the necessary uniforms, balls, bats, and other equipment.
Little League thrives as an all-volunteer organization, relying on the support and participation of our community members. Each of you has the opportunity to ensure that your league continues to provide an outstanding Little League experience not only to your child or children but to the entire community. The opportunities to support your league are numerous and varied. Consider volunteering in the concession stand, keeping score at your ballplayer’s game, or helping with field maintenance by lining the field before the game. If every family pitches in just a few hours over the course of the season, we can achieve great things together.
Don’t wait for someone to ask you to help—offer your assistance proactively. Keeping our league running smoothly and providing our Little Leaguers with an exceptional experience requires the collective efforts of each and every one of us.
Our family started our Little League journey in 1997 when our oldest child began playing tee ball. Over the years, we have seen firsthand the positive impact that Little League has on young athletes. It fosters a sense of camaraderie, teaches valuable life lessons, and creates lasting memories. As we embark on the 2025 season, I encourage you to embrace the spirit of volunteerism that makes Little League so special.
Why Volunteer?
Volunteering is the backbone of Little League, and it offers numerous benefits to both the volunteers and the young players. Here are some reasons why volunteering is so important:
Foster a Sense of Community
By volunteering, you help create a strong sense of community within the league. Your involvement brings families together, fosters friendships, and builds a network of support that extends beyond the baseball field.
Make a Difference
Every volunteer effort, no matter how small, makes a significant difference. Whether you are coaching, umpiring, or simply helping out with administrative tasks, your contribution helps create a positive and enriching environment for the players.
Teach Valuable Life Skills
Volunteering allows you to impart valuable life skills to the young athletes. Through your guidance and support, they learn about teamwork, leadership, and perseverance—skills that will benefit them both on and off the field.
Create Lasting Memories
The experiences and memories created through Little League are cherished for a lifetime. By volunteering, you play a crucial role in shaping these moments and creating a positive impact on the lives of the players.
Ways to Get Involved
There are many ways to get involved and support your Little League. Here are some ideas to consider:
Join the Concession Stand Crew
Volunteering in the concession stand is a great way to contribute to the league while enjoying the games. It’s a fun and social activity that brings families together and supports the league financially.
Keep Score
Offer to keep score at your ballplayer’s games. This role is essential for tracking the progress of the games and ensuring that records are accurately maintained.
Assist with Field Maintenance
Help with field maintenance by lining the field before games. This task ensures that the playing conditions are optimal and that the field is safe and prepared for the players.
Become a Coach or Umpire
If you have a passion for baseball or softball, consider becoming a coach or umpire. Your experience and knowledge can greatly benefit the players and elevate the quality of the games.
Support Administrative Tasks
Administrative tasks such as organizing schedules, managing registrations, and communicating with families are crucial to the smooth operation of the league. Offer your assistance in these areas to help keep things running efficiently.
Conclusion
As we welcome the 2025 Little League season in Virginia District 9, I encourage each of you to get involved and support your league. Your volunteer efforts are invaluable and will ensure that our young athletes have a memorable and rewarding experience. Together, we can continue to build a strong, vibrant community and uphold the spirit of Little League.
Thank you for your commitment and dedication. Let’s make the 2025 season the best one yet! I look forward to visiting each league and watching some great baseball and softball.
Andi Smith
District Administrator
VA District 9
[email protected]