Stephen D. Keener, Little League International president & CEO.
PITTSTON — Little League International President and CEO Stephen D. Keener has been chosen to be the featured keynote speaker at the 110th Annual Greater Pittston Friendly sons of St. Patrick Celebration Banquet at The Woodlands Resort, Wilkes-Barre, on Sunday, March 17, 2024.
Keener, 66, has been at the helm of the world’s largest youth sports organization since 1994, succeeding Creighton J. Hale as CEO.
During his tenure, Keener has overseen significant expansions and achievements within Little League International including the Little League Baseball World Series, held annually in South Williamsport, expanding from eight teams to 16 in 2001 and to 20 teams in 2021 under his leadership.
In a historic development, Keener played a pivotal role in establishing 170 Little League programs in Cuba, with the first Cuban team participating in the World Series in August. His leadership has forged a formal partnership with Major League Baseball and the Little League Urban Initiative, contributing to the growth and inclusivity of the organization.
Keener joined the Little League organization in 1980 as a summer intern after graduating from Westminster College. He made history as the first Little League player to lead the program, bringing a unique perspective to his role as president & CEO.
Among Keener’s accomplishments is his instrumental role in developing multimedia and television partnerships with ABC Sports and ESPN. Additionally, he successfully secured official sponsors, ensuring that the cost of Little League affiliation remains minimal.
Keener resides in the Williamsport area with his wife Cheryl. The couple are parents to three children and seven grandchildren.
“The Greater Pittston Friendly Sons of St. Patrick are honored to host such a distinguished individual at their 110th Annual banquet,” Errol O’Brien, Greater Pittston Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, said. “The event promises to be a celebration of Irish heritage, community, and the incredible contributions of Stephen D. Keener to the world of youth sports.”
Tickets prices are $95 for adults, $65 for guests under 21, $25 for children under 12
Tickets may be purchased from any active member of the Greater Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, or at the Pittston Knights of Columbus, 55 S. Main St., Pittston, PA 18640, on Thursday evenings from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
