Cayman: Gerry Kirkconnell receives Little League’s George Rivers Award

Local businessman and community leader, Gerry Kirkconnell, was surprised to hear his name called at a recent Cayman Islands Little League (CILL) reunion event where he was watching kids play a spirited game of baseball. The person calling his name was JC Calhoun and the reason for the interruption was to present Mr. Kirkconnell with the George Rivers Award, a meaningful, longstanding tradition of recognising CILL volunteers that has been revived

The
George Rivers Award was created to honour dedicated, long serving
CILL volunteers who wear a variety of hats to make the programme run
smoothly. Mr. Rivers himself was a committed coach, umpire, chauffeur
and so much more who had a great attitude and was truly supportive of
all the kids. All four of his kids earned Little League
‘Sportsmanship’ awards, a character trait that was fostered at
home. He died suddenly several years ago as a result of a heart
attack.

Mr.
Kirkconnell’s relationship with Little League began almost from the
organisation’s inception. His four sons and most of their friends
all played the game while he coached; some still play in the co-ed
softball league today. He also sponsored teams during those years
and continues to do so. In addition, Mr. Kirkconnell was
instrumental in helping to develop new fundraising revenue streams
for the organisation such as the Little League Golf Tournament, which
his company, Kirk Freeport, sponsored with one of its brands, Rolex,
and which became one of the most anticipated annual charity golf
scrambles. The Little League auction was another idea of his and he
was one of the most generous donors of items over the years.

Upon
accepting the award Mr. Kirkconnell commented on how much his family
had enjoyed the Little League programme over the years, how much his
kids had gotten out of it, and especially how much the behavioural
principles being taught in the programme were needed in Cayman. He
also encouraged the alumni to get out and volunteer to coach up the
next generation and pass on what they have learned through Little
League emphasising how the organisation builds community through its
programmes.

Past
recipients of the George Rivers Award are Jeremy Rice (2011), Pam
Parsons (2010), J.C. Calhoun (2009), Jim Parham (2008), Minnie
Giddings (2007), Donnie Ebanks (2003), Robbie and Paula Cribb (2002),
Rod and Penny McDowall (2001), Kevin and Robin Hartmann (2000),
Robert and Jeanette Totten (1999) and Sara Mackay (1998).

For
more information about Cayman Islands Little League email
info@littleleague.ky or
call 916.5643.