Episode 52

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Published on:

26th May 2025

Reviving a 70 Year-Old Little League: Ross Edwards' Call to Action

In this episode of Maxwell’s Iowa CoffeeCast, Maxwell sits down with Ross Edwards, a passionate coach and community leader helping breathe new life into the Raccoon Valley Little League—just as the organization celebrates its 70th year. Ross shares his own journey through the league, starting as a three-year-old in T-ball, forging friendships that would last through high school and beyond. Now 31, he’s returned to the same fields with a renewed mission: to help Raccoon Valley not just survive, but thrive.

Ross reflects on the unique place Little League holds in the lives of children and families, recalling the neighborhood energy of earlier years when parents volunteered in droves and the dugouts buzzed with local pride. But the world has changed—families are busier, costs are rising, and mega sports complexes and for-profit club teams have reshaped the landscape of youth athletics. Raccoon Valley, like many traditional little leagues, faced decline, particularly after the pandemic led to board turnover and organizational struggles.

What began for Ross as a simple offer to coach in 2022 quickly turned into a full-on revival effort. "I just looked around one day and realized nothing had been updated since I played here,” he says. That realization led to a conversation with the league president, a seat on the board, and soon after, his first big fundraiser—a golf outing that raised $7,000 and reinvigorated hope within the league. Since then, Ross has helped lead new initiatives, spearheaded field improvements, and built momentum among families and volunteers.

While Raccoon Valley’s budget can’t match the turf fields and elite travel teams, Ross believes Little League offers something just as valuable: community, accessibility, and the kind of friendships that last a lifetime. He’s watched registration numbers climb in the last few years and credits visible improvements, strong word of mouth, and the enduring appeal of playing ball with neighborhood kids for the growth.

Throughout the conversation, Ross and Maxwell share stories of growing up in Des Moines, of the magic of baseball birthdays, championship dreams, and even coaching the next generation of Sandlot-style players. The episode is a celebration of grassroots sports, the power of volunteerism, and the impact one person can have when they say, “I’ll help.”

Whether you're a former Little Leaguer, a parent of a player, or someone who just loves a good Iowa comeback story, this episode will hit home. As Ross puts it, “I thought I was just signing up to coach. But it turned into something a lot bigger—and better—than I ever expected.”

Click HERE for volunteer opportunities!

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About the Podcast

Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast
Maxwell's Fresh Brewed Conversations with Iowans
Ready to listen in to a great conversation over a delicious cup of coffee? Maxwell's Iowa CoffeeCast offers an engaging blend of candid interviews, commentary, and humor, providing listeners with fresh insight and perspective into the lives of fellow Iowans who have interesting stories to tell. Maxwell is a decades-long Iowa broadcaster and his easygoing and relatable hosting style, combined with the genuine and heartfelt nature of the conversations, creates a welcoming atmosphere for listeners and his guests. The podcast not only entertains but also provides valuable insights and reflections on personal and professional growth and the importance of staying true to one's values. And there is always a special focus on Iowan's who contribute to arts and culture in their communities. Listeners can expect the Iowa CoffeeCast to continue exploring diverse topics, featuring a range of guests who bring their unique perspectives and experiences. Whether discussing industry trends, personal stories, or broader societal issues, the podcast aims to foster meaningful dialogue and connect with its audience on a deeper level. Maxwell's commitment to authenticity and community shines through, making it a must-listen for those seeking thoughtful and engaging content.

About your host

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Maxwell Schaeffer

Maxwell Schaeffer is a 40+ year broadcast veteran and Iowa media influencer. Over his decades on the radio he has interviewed world famous entertainers, successful business leaders, Governors, Presidents and influential political figures. Above all - he prefers to interview Iowa friends and neighbors who have compelling personal stories of accomplishments, struggles and triumphs of the human spirit. In addition to being an inductee into the Iowa Rock ‘n Roll Hall of Fame (for his radio work) he is also an award winning theatrical director, actor, voiceover artist and producer.