Youngstown State University

Now in his eighth season with the Youngstown State softballprogram is Director of Softball Operations Gary Williams.

Williams, who joined the staff midway through the 2004 campaign,will be responsible for coordinating public service activities andfundraising opportunities. Williams will also be responsible forvarious game-day duties. He also spearheaded the softball program's"Hit-A-Home Run Through Recycling" initiative.

A native of Hubbard, Ohio, Williams has been involved with theCanfield (Ohio) Baseball Club for the last 20 years and served asits President for 13 years. He has led District Two Little Leaguefor 10 years, is one of 10 District Administrators in the state ofOhio and one of only 500 in the world. He has also served as atrustee for Tri-T Pony baseball and softball for 10 years.

In 1999, Williams was named one of the most Mahoning Valley'sDifference Makers by The Vindicator because of his involvement withyouth sports. He is the founder of the "Hit a Homerun ThroughRecycling" project which has collected over 4,000 pieces ofbaseball and softball equipment for Youngstown-area youth. Williamswas also involved in the creation of the "Pete's Kids Club" atYoungstown State.

Williams currently resides in Austintown.