Partly cloudy skies early will give way to cloudy skies late. Hazy. Low 58F. Winds light and variable..
Partly cloudy skies early will give way to cloudy skies late. Hazy. Low 58F. Winds light and variable.
Updated: June 7, 2025 @ 9:06 pm
South Williamsport, Pa. — More than 80 years ago, Carl E. Stotz founded the Little League program, which has since grown into the world’s largest and most trusted youth sports organization.
To honor Stotz and the game that has turned Little Leaguers into big-league role models in communities around the world, the Little League International Board of Directors established the Carl E. Stotz Little League Baseball Scholarship in 1994 to reward academic excellence of high school seniors within the Lycoming County community.
Since it was first established, the scholarship program has provided nearly 300 local high school students with more than $270,000 in financial assistance towards higher education. Each year, scholarships are awarded to male and female graduates from high schools throughout Lycoming County to honor the memory of Little League’s founder and recognize his commitment to the development of the young people in the community.
All graduating seniors in the top 25% of their class who have demonstrated good citizenship and whose spirit exemplifies effort, determination, and persistence in attaining the goal of higher education, are eligible to apply.
Receiving the $750 are:
• Isabelle Engel (Jersey Shore)
• Lucy Tripp and Zachariah Blackwell (Loyalsock)
• Emily Geiger and Jackson Springman (Montgomery)
• Sophia Reid (St. John Newman)
• Taylor Shannon and Kenneth Hampe (Muncy)
• Kendall Cardone and Carter Sullivan (South Williamsport)
• Jayden Ulmer and Robert Leiter (Williamsport)
• Alaina Hicks and Trent Wetzel (Hughesville)
Below are the 14 recipients of the 2025 Carl E. Stotz Little League Baseball Scholarships, along with an excerpt from their application essay on “The importance of Little League Baseball to me.”
Isabelle Engel – Jersey Shore Area Senior High School
Isabelle Engel worked hard both in and out of the classroom during her high school career. Academically, her resume is full of accomplishments, including being the elected president of the National English Honors Society, a member of the National Honor Society, and a member of Mu Alpha Theta (a National Honor Society for those interested in mathematics). Outside of the classroom, Engel competed on the varsity softball team, hosted softball lessons for youth athletes in her community, and volunteered at the Love Center, where she packs holiday meal boxes. In the fall, Isabelle will be attending Lycoming College where she will be playing collegiate softball.
“I have learned many life lessons through my time in Little League, including sportsmanship, the importance of family, the inclusion of fun to the game, etc. It is vital for young children to know that failure is okay, and practice makes improvement, not perfection.”
Lucy Tripp – Loyalsock Township High School
When Lucy Tripp was not in the classroom, she could be found on the volleyball court, playing with the Loyalsock’s symphonic band, participating in one of the many clubs she is in, including Key Club, Interact Club, and the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), or adding to her more than 200 hours of community service. Highlights of Tripp’s high school career include two years in the National Honor Society and National Business Honor Society, placing sixth at the FBLA State Leadership Conference and being named FBLA Chapter President, and serving as her Class Treasurer for all four years. In the fall, Tripp will attend the University of Pittsburgh to study nursing.
“Little League is essential to the childhood experience because it goes beyond learning the game of baseball or softball. Little League is rooted in resilience, teamwork, and most importantly, building a community. When parents sign their child up for Little League, they know they are giving their kids a place to be able to grow and be themselves while also teaching them core values for life.
Emily Geiger – Montgomery Junior/Senior High School
Throughout her four years in high school, Emily excelled both in her academics and in her extracurriculars. Ranked in the top 10 of her class, Geiger is a member of the National Honor Society and has been listed on the Distinguished Honor Roll every quarter. She competed as a varsity soccer player and cheerleader all four years and performed in both concert and marching band. Driven by her desire to give back to the community, outside of the classroom, Geiger has volunteered at youth cheer camps, has placed flags on veterans’ grave sites with the American Legion, worked as a Red Cross blood drive volunteer, and has created Christmas boxes for children in need. In the fall, Emily will attend Marywood University.
“Little League is fundamental to the childhood experience today and in the future for kids all around the world. Little League serves communities by bringing together children, parents, and volunteers from all over. This environment fosters ideals of community and collaboration between young athletes as they not only learn to play baseball but also how to work with others.”
Sophia Reid – St. John Newman Regional Academy
Not only is Sophia Reid a three-sports athlete – playing basketball, soccer, and softball for at least three years of her high school career – but she was also an active member of multiple academic clubs including Key Club (Vice President), National Honors Society (Secretary), National Art Honors Society (Vice President), Students Against Destructive Decisions, or SADD, and Force for Good. In the community, Reid has given her time as a vacation bible school volunteer at St. Boniface church, a volunteer at sauerkraut and spaghetti dinners at St. Luke Church, and as a tutor. In the fall, Reid will attend the Pennsylvania College of Technology.
“The Little League program is so important to me because it gave me so many memories and friendships that mean a lot to me. I have personally made friends with some of the players from previous years and still keep in touch with them, which goes to show how impactful this experience is.”
Taylor Shannon – Muncy Junior/Senior High School
During her four years at Muncy High School, Taylor Shannon has been active as a three-sport athlete, club member, and volunteer in the community. For at least three seasons, Shannon competed on the varsity tennis, softball, and basketball teams, served as a volunteer coach for the junior high girls’ basketball team, participated in the weightlifting club, and worked as the student athletic trainer. Shannon was also a member of the Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD), the Student Advisory Council, the prom committee, and the National Honor Society. In the community, Shannon volunteers at the Lycoming County SPCA and as a Little League Softball® umpire. Shannon will continue her education at Lock Haven University in the fall.
“Playing on a Little League team allows a child to see how a community will show up to support them and give back, as adults and old students assist players on these teams to further the growth of baseball and softball. It helps a child develop emotionally as they learn to step out of their comfort zone and try to learn new skills while embracing the thrill of victory and the mental toughness of defeat.”
Kendall Cardone – South Williamsport High School
In addition to being a leader on the softball field, where she served as captain, Kendall Cardone was an active member of the varsity volleyball team, select and district choir, theater, and the Kindness Rocks club. In her role as a food service host at UPMC, Cardone is consistently recognized by patients for her kindness and ability to provide comfort during hard times. In the fall, Cardone will continue her education at Lycoming College.
“The game of Little League is ambitious and fun, whether winning or losing, players are taught the beauty of sportsmanship. It is one of the most important aspects of the game and life. Learning the ability to accept losing, respecting the other competitors and players, being proud of others, and overall representing a good attitude even through personal struggle.”
Jayden Ulmer – Williamsport Area High School
Sitting in the top 5% of her class, Jayden Ulmer was inducted into the National Honor Society at the end of her junior year. In addition to academic accomplishments, Ulmer excelled musically, as well, playing the violin for the school orchestra and the Strolling Strings, a local youth orchestra modeled after the United States Army’s Strolling Strings. Ulmer will continue her education at Penn State University’s Altoona campus in the fall.
“The game of Little League is ambitious and fun, whether winning or losing, players are taught the beauty of sportsmanship. It is one of the most important aspects of the game and life. Learning the ability to accept losing, respecting other competitors and players, being proud of others, and overall representing a good attitude even through personal struggle.”
Alaina Hicks – Hughesville Junior/Senior High School
When Alaina Hicks was not playing varsity soccer or winning a girls’ wrestling match, she filled her schedule with Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), serving as secretary for the National Honors Society and for her graduating class, and volunteering with the Big Brother Big Sister program. Hicks is also the co-founder of the Community Service Club, which created opportunities for students to volunteer within their community at events like the local easter egg hunt, cemetery clean-up days, Hughesville alumni banquets, and the Nurse Family Partnership Picnic. In the fall, Hicks will attend Swarthmore College.
“Looking ahead into the future filled with computer screens all around, Little League will serve as a way to get kids outside, active, and have fun with their friends. At the end of the day, Little League isn’t just about baseball, but being prepared to step up to the plate in their own lives.”
Zachariah Blackwell – Loyalsock Township High School
Zachariah Blackwell moved to the area just three years ago, and ever since, he has gone above and beyond both in the classroom and on the field. Whether he is solving high-level calculus problems in AP Calculus BC or working at Johnson’s Cafe, Blackwell’s work ethic shines through it all. Blackwell also committed to serving his community, whether that is on the court as a helping coach for Jersey Shore Basketball or simply helping out his neighbor with yard work, showcasing his ability to balance the demands of rigorous academics, extracurriculars, and two part-time jobs. Additionally, Blackwell was a dedicated member of Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), where he was awarded the opportunity to attend the state competition in his first year as a member of the club. Blackwell will attend Penn State University in the fall to pursue chemical engineering.
“As Little League keeps growing all over the world, its lessons remain invaluable. It provides kids with a wholesome, safe environment in which to learn skills, make friends, and build character while preparing them for success both on and off the diamond.”
Jackson Springman – Montgomery Junior/Senior High School
Over the past four years, Jackson Springman has been a dedicated and dependable leader both in the classroom and on the golf course. Springman has displayed numerous leadership skills as an asset to leading the golf team to winning the Mid-Penn Conference Championship two years in a row and serving as the treasurer for his school’s Future Farmers of America program. Outside of school, Springman is a dedicated member of his church and community. Springman can be found helping at vacation bible school, volunteering as an usher for theatrical plays, and helping retrieve supplies for church events. In addition, Springman volunteers at his local Little League as an umpire. Springman finds joy in helping because he knows that his help makes things easier for others. Springman will be attending Bloomsburg University in the fall to continue his education.
“The experience that this place gives is something that kids will never forget. From playing on the fields that the players dream of every single day to playing kids from all around the world, Little League gives kids the opportunity to be a part of something bigger than themselves.”
Kenneth Hampe – Muncy Junior/Senior High School
Kenneth Hampe is a standout player on the football field, leading his team as captain for two seasons and being named an all-state player twice. His excellence is also showcased in academics, as well as being a member of the National Honor Society, and he has been named to the Pennsylvania Football News Academic Gold Team four times. According to his teacher, Hampe has never been one to shy away from challenging material, rather, he doubles his efforts to overcome the challenges that come with AP Computer Science Principles and AP Calculus AB. Hampe has proven himself to be a strong leader in his community and leading by example, whether that is helping younger players develop or encouraging older ones to reach their full potential. When Hampe is not in the classroom, one can find him officiating youth Muncy basketball games for the Muncy Basketball Association or helping organize a youth football lineman camp over the summer. Hampe will continue his academic and athletic career at Lock Haven University to study accounting and play football.
“The value that Little League offers are in its ability to teach teamwork, discipline, and resilience, which are stepping stones to personal growth. As children work together towards a common goal, they learn how to collaborate with others, building their social skills and problem-solving.”
Carter Sullivan – South Williamsport Junior/Senior High School
As a four-year member of the varsity soccer team and Key Club, Carter Sullivan has found his place on and off the field. Sullivan served as a member of the Mini-Thon Club and Cinema Club during his high school career. Furthermore, Sullivan has represented South Williamsport as a member of the Track and Field team and wrestling team. According to his teacher, Sullivan refuses to settle for mediocrity and strives to produce quality work through his efforts and dedication. He will continue his education at Misericordia University in the fall.
“Not only does it bring kids in our community together, but it brings people from all over the world together at the Little League World Series. Kids from around the world come here, to South Williamsport, to come together as a team and win it all. Not just for themselves, but for each other.”
Robert Leiter – Williamsport Area High School
Not only has Robert Leiter found success as a member of the Wind Ensemble, Millionaire Big Band, and Marching Millionaires, but he’s also a standout student. Ranking in the top five of his class at Williamsport High School, Leiter is a leader in the classroom and on the practice field. Leiter has tallied a number of music accomplishments, including multiple first-chair roles and first-place division finishes at the Cavalcade of Bands Championships in 2022 and 2024. Outside of his music career, Leiter is a four-year member of the Model UN Club, where he was awarded the best delegation at the 2024 PCT Mock Constitutional Convention and runner-up chair delegate at the Bloomsburg Model UN competition. In his community, Leiter has served in multiple volunteer roles at his church as a Sunday School teacher and vacation bible school leader. Leiter will continue his studies at Lafayette College this fall.
“The Little League experience is so important to anyone involved because it embodies what a childhood experience should be. More than anything, it creates a community for kids to be a part of something that makes them into respectful, cooperative, and dedicated human beings.”
Trent Wetzel – Hughesville Junior/Senior High School
Ranked in the top 20 in his class, Trent Wetzel was a member of the National Honor Society, AP Biology Club, Health Occupation Students of America (HOSA), and the concert and marching bands. A two-sport athlete, Wetzel, has been instrumental on the Hughesville varsity football and baseball teams, leading them to playoffs and a baseball district title in the 2022-2023 season. Outside of the classroom, Wetzel is a dedicated member of Lycoming Valley Baptist Church, teaching the three- and four-year-old class on Sundays. He is described as a compassionate leader who has a servant’s heart. In the fall, Trent will attend Gettysburg College.
“When I was a kid, playing baseball at the Little League fields was the best part of my spring and summer. It is where I found some of my best friends and where I made some of my best memories. It taught me how to be a good sport, even when things did not go my way. It taught me how to always give my best.”
About the Carl E. Stotz Little League Baseball Scholarship
The scholarships perpetuate the memory of Little League’s founder, Carl E. Stotz, recognizing his commitment to the development of youth in Lycoming County. The year following his passing, in 1993, the Little League International Board of Directors established this scholarship program to recognize Mr. Stotz’s commitment to the local, Lycoming County community, and commemorate his vision in creating a community-based organization to provide a competitive, healthy outlet for children to learn the values of teamwork, dedication, and sportsmanship. The Stotz Scholarship recognizes high school seniors from Lycoming County school districts who excel in academics and citizenship. In order to be considered, a graduating senior must be in the top 25% of their class at one of the nine Lycoming County high schools. In addition to academics, the applications are reviewed on merits of good citizenship and whose spirit exemplifies effort, determination, and persistence in attaining the goal of higher education. Each interested senior submits two letters of recommendation and an essay on why Little League Baseball and Softball become so valued in communities around the world. Applications for the scholarship are generally accepted between December and March and are awarded based on the applications received.
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