It's now been seven months into my latest role in the Little League Baseball world. In my role as District 5 Administrator, I am a volunteer who is basically a supervisor or liaison between Little League Headquarters and our local leagues.

We have many fine leagues in Cayuga and surrounding counties which compile nearly 170 teams in 14 divisions. Truly, these numbers would not be there without the exceptional volunteers who sacrifice precious spring and summer days and nights.

I believe the workload put in by Little League parents and volunteers is the most difficult of any youth sports. Between the amount of teams and the people needed to run an efficient league six days a week, 12 months a year during the dogs days of summer is insurmountable. Every year for the past 11, I have seen at least one volunteer each year get so burned out, saying they're all done working.

But come mid-April the following year, they are right back on the diamond or in the concession stand. I ultimately believe the love for their children and the camaraderie each Little League volunteer has for one another is what keeps each league's great traditions.

We all have sat there watching a Little League game, daydreaming about our days in the batters box or on the mound, reliving those unforgettable moments. A quote by author John Grisham, "What I would give for one more year of Little League Baseball," is what prompted him to make a movie, now on DVD, called "Mickey."

It's a film starring Harry Connick Jr. that was filmed on location at Little League Headquarters in Williamsport, Pa. about the best memories of many of our youth; the Little League days.

Whether it was going to the field to play in a cold spring scrimmage, to dream of winning the districts to stay alive to play in Williamsport, to keep score on the electronic board or listen to dad tell his stories from the heyday. These memories are part of the mission of Little League Baseball.

As the District Administrator, I plan to continue the hopes, dreams, and memories for all the youth and volunteers. I truly do have the vision that through proper guidance and exemplary leadership, the Little League program assists youth in developing the qualities of citizenship, discipline, and teamwork.

Amidst all the hardworking, fast-pace lifestyles that most of us live, I would like to offer you to take in a game of your local Little League. Whether it be in Auburn, Port Byron, Cato or Union Springs - grab a fresh burger off the grill and just watch a Little League or Challenger Division game, reliving those fond moments of your past or being a buddy to those who need assistance.

Also feel free to offer yourself in the stands or as an umpire. However you choose to enlighten yourself at the field, please keep in mind that you want Little League Baseball around for a long time.

Hickey, is the administrator for Little League District 5