My fellow kickballers,

I'd like to welcome everyone to what is sure to be another glorious year of all that is Lawrence kickball. Like many of you, I have watched the level of passion, commitment, skill, and organization within our little league continue to grow year after year. Ever since the first kickball game in which I participated, I have always been impressed with the purpose and spirit of those who have played. I believe that the Kaw Valley Kickball League is a great example of what it so great about living in Lawrence.

As Josh Hunt mentioned in his previous letter, I am succeeding him in the position of commissioner of the KVKL this season. While this post is largely ceremonial, it does place me in a position to be not only the voice of the league, but also the ears. Although each member of the council has an equal say in league matters, I realize that many of you will come to me with your thoughts, questions, and concerns about the league, and I welcome your input. I am aware that one of the strengths of the league--its diversity--also tends to create a wide variety of opinions amongst its members, and I hope to get input from each of these camps throughout the year.

I'd like to take this opportunity to welcome three new members to the KVKL council: Blake Swenson, Adina Scanland, and Curtis McCoy. These folks will be filling the shoes of Jessica Miescher and Robert Coffman, who served the league admirably the past season. The third spot had been vacated before the start of last season. I look forward to working with each of these folks, and am confident that they will serve the league quite well.

Perhaps most importantly, I need to pass on some information about team registration. There have been some changes in the registration deadlines to allow some extra time to compile rosters and collect league fees. The registration deadlines are as follows:

Returning Teams: Rosters due April 1st, fees due April 15th. New Teams: Rosters due April 15th, accepted teams fees due May 1st.

For more information about team registration, please contact Nick Lerner at NL@NicholasLerner.com or visit www.kawvalleykickball.com for more details.

Sincerely,

Phil Mitchell Kaw Valley Kickball League

p.s. - keep an eye on www.kawvalleykickball.com for new features & a brand new look!