Little League® International remembers long-time Little League Baseball® World Series team host Michael “Mick” Cioffi. He was 68.
Mr. Cioffi, a native of Williamsport, Pennsylvania, volunteered 43 years as an “uncle” for the Little League teams that reached the Little League Baseball World Series played each August in Williamsport. He also spent many years as a volunteer in Williamsport’s Brandon Little League.
“Mick was a quiet, gentle person, and one of the best people I’ve known in my time at Little League,” said Stephen D. Keener, Little League President and CEO. “Those who knew him best were embraced by his wit and wry smile. Through his time as a team host, a coach in Brandon Little League, and as my kids’ elementary school teacher we came to appreciate his talent for connecting with people. We’re going to miss his friendship and selfless service.”
A 1970 graduate of Williamsport Area High School, Mr. Cioffi attended Mansfield State College, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science. He began his professional career as a copy and sports editor with the Williamsport-based Grit Publishing Company.
During this time, he made the decision to return to school, attending Lycoming College in Williamsport, and earning his elementary education certification. In 1988, Mr. Cioffi began his second career, joining the Williamsport Area School District as a teacher at Hepburn Lycoming Elementary School. He would also teach at Round Hills Elementary School and Lycoming Valley Intermediate School. Mr. Cioffi would eventually earn a master’s degree in instructional technology from Bloomsburg (Pa.) University. He retired from teaching in 2019.
Mr. Cioffi is survived by his wife of 45 years, Barbara; parents, Nicholas and Anne Cioffi; sister, Janice; brother, Ronald; daughter, Meredith; son, Michael; granddaughters Avery and Emersyn; and grandson, Porter.