Dear Little League® volunteers, families, fans, and players,
With the 2024 season officially coming to a close, it is important to reflect on what an amazing year this has been. A year filled with reflection of our organization’s history, celebration of where we are today, and an excitement for what is yet to come.
As we round out our Girls with Game 50 Celebration, we are reminded how far we have come as an organization and of the pioneers who helped pave the way for generations of young girls to have the opportunity to write their chapter in the Little League story. We’ve learned of the inspirational stories and advice passed on by generations of Girls with Game and saw first-hand the impact our program has on families and communities all around the world.
It has been an honor to celebrate a year filled with fun and firsts, from the first-ever all-girls baseball event at Lamade Stadium and more than $240,000 in financial support through the launch of the #GWG50 Grant Program to historic moments and memories made during the Little League International Tournament. Through it all, it was the fun and teamwork of our players that shined brightest as our communities rallied together in a way that cannot be replicated by any other youth sports organization.
In addition, I would like to once again give my thanks and gratitude to Steve Keener as he concludes his service as President and CEO of this great organization and congratulate him on his well-deserved retirement. The impact he made during his more than 40 years with this program has been felt by millions of children around the world. The legacy he created will continue to live through the millions of volunteers who make this program possible every day. Little League will be forever grateful for his extraordinary leadership.
Finally, I speak on behalf of the entire Little League International Board of Directors when I say we look forward to the next chapter in the organization’s story under the leadership of Patrick Wilson. Pat’s wisdom, integrity, and ability is exactly what the organization needs for the future. Together we will bring the mission, vision, and values of the Little League program to life in new and exciting ways.
During this time of reflection and celebration, I want to thank each and every volunteer for making the program possible, our parents and guardians for their love and support of the children taking the field, and most importantly our players for living the values of our program on and off the field all season long.
We wish all of you a happy and healthy holiday season, and look forward to a fun, memorable, and exciting season in 2025 and beyond.
Sincerely,
Steven P. Johnson
Little League® International Board of Directors Chairman