Stockton,
California
California
Dee Dee Martinez
District Administrator
District Administrator
When you hear things like, "He's the nicest guy you could ever meet," it's no wonder all parents want Coach Bill to be their son's or daughter's coach.
Coach Bill” Bruneel has had a lifetime passion for baseball, and especially youth baseball. A farming accident at age 5 resulted in a severely injured right leg which kept him from doing some things, however, he was able to overcome that for the game he loved. Growing up in Idaho, he played first base/pitcher for Babe Ruth, high school, and American Legion baseball. In addition, he followed his younger brother’s sport activities, where at a baseball game(!) he met his wife of 53 years, Kimberly. Bill coached his first group of 12-year-olds in 1973 at Lewiston, Idaho, before there were any Bruneel kids of his own to train. As his sons, Benji and Brett (who are now 45 and 40 respectively), began to play ball. Bill got more involved with Little League. When Brett moved on from Majors, Bill remained coaching at that level and has now been doing so for over 30 years, specifically at Sunrise Little League (now Delta-Sunrise). During these years Bill has not only taught baseball fundamentals, but also learned many things himself. One being that a player’s attitude and sportsmanship are as important to the team as their athletic skills. Another lesson he found out early on is, in an elimination tournament, you never “save” your ace pitcher for the next game!
As a forever New York Yankees fan, Bill continues to coach the Major Yankees at Delta Sunrise. When Little League International added an 11-year-old All-Star category in 2004, he started coaching that group and has done so every year since, winning several championship banners along the way. He is known by many as “Coach Bill” and often has grown men walk up to greet him, and since they are older and much bigger, doesn’t always recognize them. He does realize that at age 75 he is now coaching some second-generation ball players. Having just retired from a 57-year banking career, Bill is now able to spend more time doing ball field maintenance and more importantly, enjoying the game of baseball with young athletes.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you, Coach Bill.
Enjoy an article regarding Bill's recent retirement. Lodinews.com
Tom Van De Pol (middle)
The District is proud to announce that Tom Van De Pol has accepted placement on the District Umpire Staff.
Van De Pol is a life-long “seamhead” and believer in Little League. Tom started as a manager with Sunset Little League in 2004 and served on their board for a total of 7 years (3 years as President). A former catcher who is comfortable behind the plate, he started umpiring in 2011 and loves it. Tom was born in Stockton and works in his family business. He and his wife Jenny have 2 adult sons.
Jeff Frese ((left)
Umpire-in-Chief, Jeff Frese (left), will be stepping down as UIC after the 2024 season. Frese has served in this position since 2006.
The District is also announcing that Peter Marriott will be taking over for Frese as the new Umpire-in-Chief beginning at the end of the 2024 season. Marriott will be going through a mentoring period this year.
Pete Marriott (right)
Marriott is a dedicated individual with a passion for sports and recreation and has left a lasting impact on the Stockton community. His journey began at a young age, working for the Tracy Recreation Commission and gaining experience in various roles, from scorekeeping to refereeing. Pete’s commitment to education led him to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Recreation Administration Therapeutic. During his 11 years at Stockton Developmental Center, Pete witnessed firsthand the lifelong benefits of positive experiences through sports and recreation. He later transitioned to teaching at Walton Special Center within the Stockton Unified School District until his retirement in 2021. Notably, Pete returned to umpiring in 2016, volunteering at Pacific Little League and eventually joining the District 8 umpire staff. His dedication to being a positive role model for the Little League community remains unwavering. Beyond family ties, Pete considers contributing to Stockton’s youth and being part of the Little League community among the greatest gifts in his life. He appreciates all volunteers who share the vision that our children are the future, emphasizing the importance of setting a positive example and imparting valuable lessons to the next generation.
.png)