‘The Godfather’ of Little League: Howard Gold’s Unwavering Dedication Amid Health Struggles

At Rutenberg Park in Lee County, Florida, a remarkable figure keeps youth baseball alive. For three decades, Howard Gold has poured his heart into South Fort Myers youth baseball. Now, even with Parkinson's, he won't step away from his role as league president.

"The Godfather, everybody calls him that," said one parent, according to Gulf Coast News. "There's no baseball being played here without Howard Gold," added another parent.

His 24-year stint as president has brought seven state titles to the program. But wins aren't what drives him. Gold spends his days teaching kids the basics, from proper throwing motion to catching techniques. His impact stretches far past the baseball diamond.

"Life's going to throw some tough, tough things at you," Gold said. "You lose today, you play another game in a few days. That's kind of what life is."

When doctors gave him the news this year, Gold stayed steady. "It's not like cancer or something," he said. "The best way to describe it is all the sudden you feel old."

Each day still finds him at the field, unfazed. "I hope it's the best three or four hours of their week," Gold said.