Message from the President
March 4, 2010

Baseball and Softball – Putting Kids First

 The definition of a hero is not a person who leaps tall buildings in a single bound, but more realistically, a person who heaps the responsibility upon his/her shoulders for the positive development of youth.  Many of these heroes volunteer their time and resources to Babe Ruth League, Inc.  I truly believe that the Babe Ruth program has the highest quality volunteer network of any youth sports organization. 

 I am always amazed to see the hard work and dedication put forth by our volunteers for the youth of their communities.  They focus their time on teaching the game and developing the skills, and not so much on the big trophy or plaque you might get if you win the league title.

 Don’t get me wrong.  Winning is fun and it does carry some importance.  But our volunteers realize that a young person has to be taught that success is not all about winning.  Success is having fun in learning how to do it right.  If kids learn to do it right, in a fun environment, winning will be a windfall of that, and the attitudes of the kids involved will be affected in such a way that it will not only affect them in the sport, but in their everyday lives, as well.  Our volunteers realize that this is more important than any win-loss record.

 We at “home plate” are honored and confident that our volunteers are doing their best to make sure they are successful in their endeavors to make the games fun and educational for all participants.  Therefore, it is important we give credit where credit is due. 

 To all of our very special volunteers, we thank you for helping us continue to provide a memorable and quality learning experience for our youth.

 With the assistance and encouragement of our volunteers, we pride ourselves on promoting sportsmanship and building charter.  We realize that kids need encouragement, praise and a pat on the back every day.  Their success will come in baby steps as they progress.  Any success is positive and should be applauded. 

 We keep our youth excited about baseball and softball.  Our managers and coaches serve as mentors and teachers.  We encourage them to teach by example; to instill in our players the principles of teamwork, honesty, fair play, high moral attitudes, and how to handle winning and losing.  We believe youth baseball and softball are more than just games.  They serve as an outdoor classroom by which to teach our players many valuable life lessons.

 Above all else, Babe Ruth League, Inc. is for our players.  In adopting rules, in establishing standards, and in all planning, our primary consideration is what is best for our participants.  This is affirmed in our Mission Statement:

 The Babe Ruth Baseball/Softball program, using regulation competitive baseball and softball rules, teaches skills, mental and physical development, a respect for the rules of the game, and basic ideals of sportsmanship and fair play.  In all aspects, Babe Ruth League, Inc. is committed to providing our participants the very best educational,  sports experience possible.  It is our fundamental belief that every child with a desire to play baseball or softball be afforded that opportunity.

 With the 2010 playing season right around the corner, we look forward to keeping our primary emphasis on participation for all players at all levels of athletic ability and making sure their experience is fun and educational!  And we will accomplish these goals! – how do I know this? – Because we have the best volunteers in all of youth sports!

Steven M. Tellefsen
President/CEO