[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 79 (Friday, May 23, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E833]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  RECOGNIZING THE 45TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE PRINCE WILLIAM LASSIE LEAGUE

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                        HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, May 23, 2014

  Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the 45th anniversary 
of the Prince William Lassie League for their continued service and 
dedication of providing a youth softball sports program for Prince 
William County girls to all walks of life.
   In 1969, a handful of rural Prince William County residents were 
concerned that there were not enough sports opportunities for young 
girls. They created a slow-pitch softball league for girls aged 6-16. 
This new sports venue quickly complimented the many sports venues for 
boys and provided girls a place of their own to play sports and have 
friendly competition. This new league of slow-pitch softball for girls 
was known as the ``Dale City Lassie League.''
   In 1991, 22 years after its creation, the Dale City Lassie League 
became the Prince William Lassie League, which accommodated the growing 
county and its many families. With the dedication of volunteers and 
communities, the Lassie League has provided an avenue where young girls 
can develop athletic skills, cultivate life-long friends and learn 
sportsmanship. In the past 45 years, the Lassie League has supported 
between 12-15 thousand players and families through participation. The 
Lassie League now supports girls aged 5-18 and conducts two seasons 
(spring and fall) annually.
   The doors to the Lassie League are open to all young girls in Prince 
William County, no matter what their social or economic background 
might be. For young girls whose family is financially limited, the 
Lassie League finds a way for that girl and her family to participate. 
The League also provides college scholarships annually to participating 
girls.
   Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the 45th 
anniversary of the Prince William Lassie League.

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