Little League® International has officially announced Karl Eckweiler as Chief Legal Counsel, joining the staff in South Williamsport, Pa.
“Karl’s extensive legal background and experience as in-house counsel in a corporate environment provides him with the skills and expertise necessary to assist the day-to-day operations of Little League International,” said Stephen D. Keener, Little League President and CEO. “We are looking forward to having Karl as part of our team here in Williamsport and are proud to welcome him to the Little League family.”
Mr. Eckweiler heads to Williamsport after serving as the Vice President, Deputy General Counsel, Litigation, Labor, Employment, and Environmental Law for NiSource Corporate Services Company in Merrillville, Ind., since 2009. During his time there, Mr. Eckweiler also led the Corporate Compliance, Ethics, Security, Emergency Response, and Records Management functions.
“On behalf of the Little League International Board of Directors, we are proud to welcome Karl to Williamsport and into the Little League Baseball and Softball program,” said Davie Jane Gilmour, Ph.D., Little League International Board of Directors Chairman. “Many non-profit organizations and corporations similar to Little League have an in-house counsel, and as the worldwide leader in the youth sports industry, this addition to the Little League staff will allow the organization to provide even more support to our local leagues in support of our mission to ensure that every child has a fun and meaningful Little League experience.”
A summa cum laude graduate of Quinnipiac School of Law, Mr. Eckweiler began his legal career with the Xerox Corporation as a Staff Attorney in 1987. From there, Mr. Eckweiler navigated his way through nearly 25 years with the company in roles as Division Counsel and Senior Counsel, with responsibilities varying in Distribution, Antitrust, and Litigation; Operations; and EH&S, before taking the position at NiSource.
“Karl’s dedication, expertise, and established background as a Senior Counsel provides him with the skills necessary to maintain Little League’s position as the largest youth sports organization in the world,” said Hugh E. Tanner, Little League International Board of Directors Chairman-Elect. “Along with his extensive legal background, Karl possesses a deep understanding of the future goals of the organization, the mission behind what Little League Baseball and Softball is driven by, and what the Little League brand and experience means to the community. We are excited for the future and believe that Karl is an excellent choice for this new Chief Legal Counsel position.”
Mr. Eckweiler began his new position with Little League International in South Williamsport, Pa., on July 31.
“I am very excited about joining the Little League International team,” said Mr. Eckweiler. “To be a part of an organization that lives its motto, ‘Character, Courage, Loyalty,’ is humbling. I am looking forward to serving the dedicated volunteers and Little Leaguers all around the world.”