2025 MSBL League Profile: Miami Valley Adult Baseball League (Dayton, Ohio), Joe Cantrell, League President
Compiled by Steve LaMontia, Director of Communications
League Name: Miami Valley Adult Baseball League (MVABL)
Your Name: Joe Cantrell
What is the history of the league and how did it start? The Miami Valley Adult Baseball League (MVABL) was established in 1994 in Dayton, Ohio by a small but passionate group of baseball enthusiasts who felt a void after aging out of traditional youth leagues and high school programs. They wanted to create a space where adults could continue to compete and share their love for the game. With just six teams in its inaugural season, the league embodied a grassroots effort, built on camaraderie and a genuine passion for baseball.
Over the years, MVABL has grown into a vibrant organization, earning recognition as one of the premier adult leagues in the region. Its growth reflects the enduring love for baseball within our community and the hard work of countless players, coaches, and volunteers who have kept the dream alive for over three decades.
What age divisions of play are now offered? The MVABL currently offers an 18+ age division that caters to competitive players who want to stay in the game or return to the diamond after a break. While we are always evaluating ways to expand, the 18+ division remains the heart of our league, ensuring that players from diverse backgrounds and experience levels have a place to connect through baseball. While the 18+ is our main selection players as old as 60+ still love to play against the young guns and some are still pretty competitive.
How many teams are anticipated this year? For the 2025 season, we are anticipating 14 teams to join our league, with several additional teams expressing interest in becoming part of the MVABL family. This potential for growth speaks to the strength of our league and the community’s enthusiasm for baseball. Watching the league thrive and attract new talent year after year is a testament to our commitment to offering a great experience for players.
When does the league begin play, and when will it finish, including any playoffs?
Our season kicks off in late April, right as spring breathes new life into the region. Regular-season games run through the summer months, with August marking the conclusion of the main schedule. Playoffs begin in September, culminating in a thrilling championship series that always delivers unforgettable moments and brings the community together.
When did you personally start playing in the league? I joined the MVABL in 1995, its very first season. From the moment I stepped onto the field, I knew I had found a home. The league reignited my competitive spirit and gave me a new sense of belonging, surrounded by people who shared my love for baseball.
What is your personal baseball playing history? My baseball journey started in high school, where I competed at a high level and developed a deep appreciation for the sport. I even played briefly in college before life’s responsibilities led me to focus on work and family. After becoming a police officer, I thought my playing days were behind me, but joining the MVABL changed everything. The league gave me a second chance to compete, stay active, and build lifelong friendships.
When did you become president? I first stepped into the role of president in 1996, just a couple of years after the league’s founding. I served for several years before stepping back, and then I returned to the position in 2019. My time as president has been marked by constant learning, growth, and a commitment to preserving the league’s legacy while steering it toward an even brighter future.
Who were your predecessors, and are they still involved in any capacity? Chris Knox, the league’s founder, was the first president. Many other dedicated individuals have taken the reins over the years, including JonMarc Lippincott, who served nearly a decade and left a lasting impact. I’m proud to say that many former presidents, including Jonmarc, remain connected to the league as advisors, coaches, or players. Their ongoing involvement speaks volumes about the sense of community we’ve built.
What is your most memorable MSBL moment as a president or a player? As a player, my most cherished memory is winning the championship in 1999 with my team, the Devil Rays. We were an expansion team with little experience playing together, but we defied the odds and achieved something truly special. The bond we shared on and off the field is something I’ll carry with me forever.
Personally, I’ve also hit 239 career hits in the league and have my eyes set on 300—an ambitious goal, but one I hope to achieve as I savor my remaining playing days.
As president, my most memorable moment was overseeing the expansion of the league. Watching the league grow and evolve to include more players, more teams, and more opportunities for people to fall back in love with baseball is the highlight of my tenure.
What challenges did you face when you started the league or when you took over? When I first took over as president, one of the biggest hurdles was modernizing the league. From organizing schedules to managing player registrations and ensuring competitive balance, it was no small task. But by leaning on technology, fostering communication, and building a strong leadership team, we’ve been able to streamline operations and set the league up for long-term success.
What are your biggest challenges today? Today, the challenges have shifted. Securing quality fields and umpires is an ongoing battle, especially as the league continues to grow. Maintaining a competitive balance among teams is another priority—everyone deserves a chance to compete and enjoy the game. Keeping players engaged throughout the season and adapting to their needs has also become increasingly important.
What gives you the greatest satisfaction? For me, nothing compares to the joy of seeing players of all ages and backgrounds come together on the diamond. Watching friendships form, rivalries develop, and memories take shape year after year makes all the effort worthwhile.
What do you see for the league in the future? I envision the MVABL continuing to grow, possibly introducing a 35+ division to cater to older players who still want to compete. I also see opportunities to host regional tournaments, which would bring even more visibility and prestige to our league.
What is the reason for the continued success of the league? Our success lies in our ability to foster a sense of community. The MVABL is more than just a league—it’s a family. The dedication of our players, coaches, and volunteers, combined with a commitment to quality and fairness, ensures that the league remains a welcoming and rewarding experience for everyone involved.
What part of running the league do you enjoy most? I love meeting new players and hearing their stories. Organizing events and working alongside the league’s incredible coaches and volunteers is also incredibly fulfilling. Seeing all the pieces come together each season is a reward in itself.
Do you still play in the league? Yes, I do! While my focus is on managing the league and ensuring its success, I still make time to play. There’s something about stepping onto the field that never gets old.
What is the history of your league team’s participation in any MSBL national tournaments? Several of our teams have participated in MSBL national tournaments, and we’ve had some fantastic showings over the years.
What would you say are the most important accomplishments in your league?
Expanding the league to include more teams and players has been a major accomplishment. Establishing a strong online presence and improving our operations have also been key milestones.
How valuable is your relationship with MSBL? Our partnership with MSBL has been instrumental in our success. It provides us with access to resources, networking opportunities, and a broader platform to grow and improve.
What advice would you give to new league presidents? Stay organized, communicate effectively, and never lose sight of why you’re doing this: the love of the game. Building strong relationships with players, coaches, and the community will take you far.
How important is family support? Family support is everything. Whether it’s understanding the time commitment or coming out to cheer us on, having loved ones in your corner makes all the difference.