As an important step in the overall restructuring of the Little League® International operations department to support volunteers and communities, former Senior Director of League Development and Regional Operations, Dan Velte, has been elevated to the new role of Senior Operations Executive. Under the guidance of newly appointed Chief Operating Officer, Pat Wilson, Mr. Velte will be responsible for overseeing the Little League International and Regional operations, along with a series of additional changes to provide structure and support to the United States regional offices and district operations.
“As we look at our organizational structure and future growth, Little League’s primary focus is providing the support and direction for our volunteers to embrace our player-centric goals of providing meaningful and memorable Little League opportunities for all children,” said Stephen D. Keener, Little League President and CEO. “We are pleased to announce our newly created structure and look forward to Dan’s new role as we support him and our continuing efforts to strengthen our operations and volunteer support, as well as guide our strategic plan of action to grow the Little League program around the world.”
Under the leadership of Mr. Velte, the Little League International regional operations staff will provide direct support and direction to the more than one million Little League volunteers around the world. In his new position, he will oversee the day-to-day operations of Little League’s nine regional centers serving more than 80 countries. He will also work with Little League’s operations staff dedicated to supporting educational and training efforts, the Little League Softball® program, the Little League Urban Initiative, volunteer umpire and coach development, and more.
“One of the things that makes Little League such a unique organization is the passion of our volunteers and our commitment to providing them with direction and guidance to enhance baseball and softball experiences for children around the world,” said Mr. Velte. “I’m looking forward to working with my colleagues, our volunteers, and our community leaders in more than 80 countries, to embrace the challenges our leagues face and bring the steadfast support that is unmatched in all of youth sports.”
Mr. Velte, a native Geneva, New York, has worked for Little League International since graduating from Brockport (N.Y.) State University in 2001. From 2001 to 2004, he served as the Southwestern Regional Assistant Director before relocating to Williamsport, Pennsylvania, to assume a newly created position of Director of League Development. In 2007, he was named Director of League Development and Affiliation, and in 2016, he was promoted to Senior Director of League Development and Regional Operations. During his time in Williamsport, Mr. Velte has been crucial in the development of innovative resources to support local league operations, including the 2020 Season Resumption Guide and 2021 Season Resources, has played an active role to establish partnerships that has led to international expansion of the Little League program, and is instrumental in the organization and execution of the seven Little League World Series tournaments as the Senior Assistant Tournament Director.