Throughout the off-season the board met with parents, coaches and umpires to get feedback about what went well in 2008 and what needs to be improved in 2009. The intent is to make changes so the Little League experience is positive for everyone.

A few things to note for the coming year:

· We are going to introduce a district level 8-9 year old all-star tournament. The city of Crystal will host this sixteen team tournament in July.

· We added fifteen new board members this year and we are excited about their enthusiasm and ideas.

· Field improvements include new infields at Skippy Field along with new batting cages and a remodeled concession stand.

· Formed a new partnership with The SLP Baseball Association in order to offer baseball for ages 5-15.

· We tested a new AA program in 2007 for 5-6 year olds. It was a success and we plan to have it again in 2009.

· The $100 registration fee will not increase in 2009.
 

Please call the Hotline or email baseball@slplittleleague.com with any of your baseball questions.

The purpose of Little League is to develop ball players by stressing basic baseball fundamentals and appropriate attitudes towards events on the field and towards team play. Most importantly, Little League should be FUN! The aim is to work towards being a competitive team rather than to win at all costs. Each player, at all levels, will be treated as fairly as possible within the substitution rules of Little League Baseball and in consideration of his/her abilities.

On March 12, 2007, Tobi Duffy brought her son, Jacob, to the doctor for a sinus infection. The problem turned out to be much more serious. Jacob, 10, was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer called ependymoma. Ependymoma is when a tumor grows on the brain stem. The good news is Jacob's cancer has receded and he was able to attend school this year and participate in activities, including playing in SLP Little League.  

Not everything is back to normal, however. As a result of the cancer and radiation, Jacob lost significant hearing in his left ear and a little in his right. Jacob goes back to the hospital every three months for an MRI and blood tests. With all the time spent at hospitals, medical bills have piled up and the family is nearing the maximum amount their insurance will cover. The Jacob Duffy Foundation was created to assist his family with past and future medical bills. If you would like to donate to the Foundation, you may send you donations to: The Jacob Duffy Foundation, c/o Wells Fargo Bank 5116 Vernon Ave South, Edina, MN 55436