The Vern Baker Award

During his long association as a manager with Dyer Little League, Vern Baker looked for or worked to develop certain traits in his players.  Some of the more important of those traits were attitude, leadership, ability, determination and competitive desire.  In memory of Vern Baker and his many contributions to Dyer Little League and to help instill Vern’s Little League ideals in future generations of Dyer Little League players, this award has been established to recognize the 12 year-old that through the course of the past season that has best exemplified these principles.  The recipient of this award stands out as a great Dyer Little League ambassador for contributions both on and off the playing field.

Award Candidates:
Current 12 year old players

Award Criteria:
Positive attitude both on and off the field, proven leader that understands and values the team concept. Solid ability with strong work ethic, great determination and fighting spirit. Competitive desire without compromising sportsmanship.

Nomination Process:
Each Major Manager submits one player from their team and one player from an opposing team. They are submitted with a paragraph as to why that player deserves this award.

The winner will be announced prior to the Major Championship game on Championship Saturday.

Vern Baker Award Winners:

2002- Jordan Obarski
2003- Eric Hanck
2004- Kevin Heinrich
2005- Adam Bastie
2006- Ben Buoscio
2007- Adam VanMilligan
2008- Zac Vesci
2009 - Geoff Pucci
2010- Joseph Strus
2011- Nic Rossi
2012- Owen Piatt 
2013- Cade Smith
2014- Andrew Etter  
2015- AJ Golfis
2016- Eric Tinsley
2017- Josh Warn
2018- Dominic Bonk & Nicole Vollrath
2019- Jack Moore & Dylan Hein
2020- Anthony Alfaro
2021- Colten Cunningham
2022- Colin Coughlin
2023- Braeden Watson
2024- Liam Paplomatas
2025- Thomas Rodriguez & Josh Failor