It is with great sorrow and sadness that we announce the death of our co-founder, secretary and friend, Mary Hirn. Mary passed away on Wednesday, April 14, 2010, in the early morning hours. Our thoughts and prayers are with Mary’s family. Mary will be greatly missed by all NCLL families and the thousands of children who have played baseball at NCLL since its founding over 30 years ago.

Since the founding of NCLL, Mary has exhibited and lived the values of courage, character and loyalty that are the foundation of Little League Baseball. Whether it was making sure that every child had an opportunity to play baseball or continuing to perform her duties as secretary and player agent for NCLL while battling a debilitating disease, Mary faced all challenges courageously and with a passion. Make no mistake about it--- NCLL was a passion for Mary.

Mary’s character never wavered in good or bad times. She always did everything with a smile: working in the concession stand, entering registration data, stuffing envelopes or returning numerous phone calls. Mary loved Al; she loved her family and she loved her NCLL family. She always had a kind word for anyone who would seek her advice. Who can forget Mary throwing out bubble gum to all the children on all the opening days that she attended.

Mary was fiercely loyal to NCLL and would champion our league’s cause to anyone who would listen and if they wouldn’t listen, she made them listen. She built consensus and brought people together for the good of the children in the league. Mary’s legacy lives and dwells in past, present and future children who play baseball and learn team work at NCLL.

The board for NCLL has unanimously agreed that the NCLL 2010 season is dedicated to the memory of Mary Hirn, as celebration of her life. It is our hope that we will continue to live up to the high standards that Mary has set for us.

If there is a Little League in heaven, we are sure that Mary has volunteered to help out.

Mary, we miss you, already.