01/15/2026
With Gratitude and Pride — Thank You, Oakridge-Eagle Youth-Baseball.
I have been part of Oakridge Youth Baseball since 2015, when my son first put on a helmet and stepped onto the field to play T-Ball. Like many parents, I started out just wanting to help—coaching, encouraging, and at times doing my best to herd a group of energetic little kids (squirrels/daisy pickers) who loved baseball more than listening. What I didn’t realize then was that this league would become such an important part of my life.
In 2019, Oakridge Youth Baseball faced a moment of transition. Many longtime committee members stepped away as their children aged out of Little League, and the future of the league depended on people willing to step forward. Alongside a small but dedicated group of volunteers, I helped take on that challenge as Vice President. Then in 2022, when our President moved to another district, I was asked to step into the role of President—an opportunity I accepted with equal parts pride and uncertainty.
I quickly learned that running a youth sports program is about far more than baseball. It’s about people. It’s about late nights, tough decisions, problem-solving, teamwork, and doing what’s best for the kids—even when it’s hard. I also learned just how powerful a committed community can be. Over the past eight years, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside some truly incredible people. Their passion, dedication, and willingness to give their time freely is the reason this league didn’t just survive—it thrived.
As a result of that collective effort, Oakridge Youth Baseball continued to grow, serving an average of 180 players and 19 teams each year. Together, we replaced aging equipment, updated our maintenance mule, painted, repaired rotted dugouts, added 3 scoreboards and made countless improvements that helped create a safe and welcoming environment for our players and families.
One achievement stands out as especially meaningful—the completion of Tony Cardinal Field after nearly 30 years. That milestone was only possible because of the determination and hard work of so many volunteers and supporters. From cement dugouts to irrigation repairs, protective barriers, and aesthetic improvements at the VFW Oakridge Veteran Memorial Sports Complex, this project represents what can be accomplished when a community comes together. We didn’t just finish a field—we honored the past and invested in the future.
Now, as my son has aged out of Little League and begins his high school sports journey, the time has come for me to step away. This is not an easy goodbye. Oakridge Youth Baseball has given my family memories we will cherish forever, friendships that will last a lifetime, and a deep sense of pride in what we built together. But it is time to pass the torch and allow the next generation of leaders to guide this league forward.
To every coach, committee member, umpire, concession volunteer, sponsor, parent, and fan who showed up—rain or shine—thank you. You are the heart of this league. Thank you for trusting me, supporting me, challenging me, and walking alongside me on this journey.
And to the players—this league has always been about you. Thank you for your smiles, your determination, your growth, and your love for the game. Whether you hit a home run, struck out, made the game-winning play, or learned how to handle disappointment with grace, you taught all of us what Little League truly represents. Never forget that baseball is more than a game—it’s about teamwork, respect, perseverance, and having fun. Keep playing hard, cheering for your teammates, and believing in yourselves. I’ll be proudly watching from the stands, cheering you on every step of the way.
Oakridge Youth Baseball will always hold a special place in my heart.
With sincere gratitude and pride,
Todd T.
Outgoing President
Oakridge Youth Baseball
