For Angela Elizondo, being part of the Little League® program is more than just a role; it is part of her identity. Her passion for the program stems from her two boys, who both started their journeys in Little League at just four years old. At the time, she had no idea what impact being a part of Victoria (Texas) Southeast Little League would have, but now she hopes more people volunteer so they can experience the fun that she has experienced throughout the years.
“Be involved with your league as much as you can,” said Elizondo. “You can start anywhere. If you are committed and passionate about bringing the best possible experience to your players, anything is possible.”
Recognized as the October 2025 Little League Diamond Leader of the Month, Elizondo shared her training experience in a Diamond Leader Discussion:
Why do you think it is important for coaches and volunteers in a Challenger Division to take the Little League Diamond Leader Training Program?
The one thing that sticks out to me is becoming a mentor to young athletes. Being able to be someone that these kids can look up to and learn from is something that every coach should strive to be. As a coach, you are not just teaching the game; you are shaping a child’s character. Taking the Diamond Leader Program allows every coach to understand that every player deserves compassion, guidance, and a place to grow. When you take the time to understand each child and help them find confidence in their position, you are not building just better athletes, but better people.
What lessons from the training do you plan to carry into future seasons?
The one overall lesson that I keep going back to is just knowing how to carry yourself as a coach. The development and growth of each kid on the diamond is so important. Every kid is going through something different, so you need to find that compassion for them. That is what helps build who they grow up to be on and off the field. Being able to help a child reach their baseball goals and help them develop individually is an accomplishment within yourself as a coach.
What does it mean to you to be a Diamond Leader, and why should others strive to be the same?
It means a lot to me. To become more involved and understand every player’s strengths and weaknesses, not only does it help you bring your team together, but the community as well. I have also learned so much about the type of coach I want to be. I want to be able to be the person kids come back to and celebrate their accomplishments with.
The Little League Diamond Leader program, which was first piloted with nearly 1,000 Little League volunteers throughout the 2022 season, was created as part of the Susan Crown Exchange’s Million Coaches Challenge and developed in coordination with the Aspen Institute’s Project Play. Focused on ensuring children have a positive, well-rounded experience on and off the field, the Little League Diamond Leader Training Program is a FREE educational resource that provides coaches with an understanding of the impact that mental, social, and emotional well-being has in youth sports through detailed information, interactive scenarios, and a variety of additional resources. Learn more and become a Diamond Leader yourself by visiting LittleLeague.org/DiamondLeader.
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