Did you know that Fountain Valley Little League has a very special postseason award voted on by every team? It’s called the Carter Ankeny Inspirational Player Award, created in memory of a remarkable boy whose love for baseball touched everyone around him.

Carter Ankeny was the son of Tim “Tall Guy” Ankeny, a longtime FVLL coach and board member. Carter battled leukemia for two years, yet even while in active treatment, he continued to play for FVLL. He never let his illness steal his joy. He loved being on the field, surrounded by his teammates, and his bright spirit reminded everyone what it truly means to play the game.

To his family, Carter was their “ball of light.” On October 8th, just before his 7th birthday, Carter passed away from complications of treatment. To honor his memory and his love for baseball, his family partnered with Fountain Valley Little League to create the Carter Ankeny Inspirational Player Award.

Each year, one player from every division is recognized with this award. It doesn’t go to the best player on the field—it goes to the one who plays with joy, lifts up their teammates, and inspires others to be better. A small cash prize accompanies the award, but its true value is in what it represents: the spirit of a boy who loved the game with all his heart.