The tradition and spirit of volunteerism has long been the foundation of which the success and growth of the Little League program in Montana District 2 has relied upon. Of the many volunteers, no one better exemplified the spirit and principles of Little League more than Dale Clawson. Dale was a true pioneer in Montana District 2 Little League. Since 1950, he was essential in not only helping to build the Little League programs in Missoula, but he was a leader, role model, and friend to the entire District 2 Little League Family. His dedication and commitment to helping our youth grow to be productive citizens is the example that all those involved in youth sports should aspire to. Following his passing in 2006, the Presidents and Officers of Montana District 2 saw it only fitting that each year, we recognize those people that give of themselves on behalf of our young athletes in the same spirit as Dale did, thus they created the "Dale Clawson Spirit of Little League Award".
The "Dale Clawson Spirit of Little League Award" is awarded to a deserving individual every fall at the annual District Conference. The recipient is selected by the officials in the host city and honored for his or her work at the District Banquet. The honoree is awarded an individual plaque as well as having his or her name enshrined upon the perpetual plaque that hangs proudly at Mount Sentinel Little League's Dale Clawson Complex in Missoula. We are honored and blessed to have the opportunity to recognize and benefit from the work of Dale and these fine individuals:
2007
Ned Ellingwood, Butte
2008
Bob Weigum, Sr., Great Falls
2009
Hal Karl, Missoula
2010
Joan O'Neill, Butte
2011
Kent Seaton, Great Falls
2012
Daurine Spritzer, Missoula
2013
Mike Parent, Butte
2014
Zeke Zaremski & Chuck Whitmore, Great Falls
2015
Al Johnson & Renny Malach, Missoula
2016
Bob & Dee Scalabrin, Butte
2017
Deidre Martinko, Great Falls
2018
Duane, Meiers, Missoula
2019
Joe & Pat Lee, Butte
2022
Jennifer Hartum, Great Falls
2023
Andy Bartlome, Dillon
2024
Kevin Miltko, Missoula
2025
Leann Svir, Great Falls
The Montana Little League community is proud to recognize Leann Svir as the 2025 recipient of the Dale Clawson Spirit of Little League Volunteer Award. For more than two decades, Leann has been a constant and caring presence within the league, embodying the very heart of volunteerism that sustains Little League programs across Montana. Her service began when her sons were players, but her commitment never ended when their playing days did—she stayed because of her deep belief in the mission of Little League and her love for the kids and families it serves.
Leann’s 20-plus years of dedication have made her a true staple of the Great Falls Americans Little League. She has served as a Player agent, Concessions Manager, as well as a President of one of Montana's largest Little Leagues. As volunteers became few and far between, Leann held Little League together through a number of years. District Administrator, Keith Miller, credits her for saving Little League in Great Falls - a community that is rich in Little League tradition. Season after season, she has given her time, energy, and compassion to ensure the league operates smoothly and remains a welcoming place for players, parents, and volunteers alike. Whether working behind the scenes or stepping in wherever help was needed, Leann has consistently put the needs of the league and the kids above her own, creating a culture of reliability and care that others have come to depend on.
The Dale Clawson Spirit of Little League Volunteer Award was established to honor the legacy of Dale Clawson, a Montana Little League icon whose volunteer work helped keep Little League alive and thriving in Missoula during the 1970s. Dale was instrumental in expanding opportunities for older players by transitioning former teenage leagues into Little League, ensuring the growth of a teenage division that still benefits the district today. For decades, he also served as Assistant District Administrator alongside Bill Gianoulias, overseeing countless tournaments and providing steady leadership that shaped Montana Little League through the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s.
Like Dale, Leann represents the quiet strength that fuels Little League year after year. She may not seek recognition, but her impact is deeply felt by everyone who has passed through the Great Falls Americans program. Her longevity, selflessness, and unwavering support reflect the true spirit of Little League—service rooted in community, tradition, and love for the game. In honoring Leann Svir with the 2025 Dale Clawson Spirit of Little League Volunteer Award, we celebrate not only her remarkable service, but also the enduring spirit that keeps Little League strong for future generations.
Leann Svir and Keith Miller (District Administrator)