For most Little League® families, the season is over, the cleats are hung up, and the memories made this past year have been placed in the scrapbook. But, before you know it, registration time will be here, and now is the time to start thinking about your own participation for the coming Little League seasons.
As a Little League volunteer, you are empowered to engage with others, build friendships, and make a difference. And whether you’re a player or a volunteer, there is no better way to connect with people, and grow your social circle than by having fun at the Little League fields.
To volunteer in your local league is an investment in your family and community. Little League uses baseball and softball as the impetus to encourage a healthy and fun learning environment. Now is a great time to start thinking about your child’s most recent Little League season, and answer some questions. What did you like? What didn’t you like? How would you like to see the experience change? The fall is often when local Little League programs hold their Board elections and start preparing for next season. Actively thinking about what your role is going to be next year, and stepping up as a volunteer early in the planning can help make your season more enjoyable, and give you more time to be an active part of your child’s Little League experience.
If you’re not sure how you can volunteer, reach out to your League President. Ask about current vacancies on the Board of Directors, and how your interests can help the league. Think about what you enjoy doing, and how that can translate to a volunteer position. Are you a numbers person? Join the audit committee or become a scorekeeper. Do you love social media? Take control in revamping your league’s online presence. Do you fondly recall your own time playing baseball or softball? Express interest in coaching.
Every Little League program in the world has a need for volunteers, and finding the right role for you in your local league will not only help the league be successful, but make the experience more enjoyable for your entire family, as well. Little League International provides unparalleled resources for its volunteers, from free training and clinics, to coaching programs, to LittleLeagueU.org, Little League is here to support you, as you support your community.
For more than 75 years, the true value of Little League has been in its people – the players and volunteers – who have taken the ideals of Little League – courage, character and loyalty – and crafted them to suit and serve where they live, and instill the lessons of teamwork, dedication, and sportsmanship in children around the world.
During registration, considering checking “yes,” in the volunteer box. Your league and Little League International will surely be thankful, but the real benefit will be helping your Little Leaguers and their friends have a meaningful, fun season.