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Chris Riley
President 2018-Present
Chris currently serves as President of Grand Mesa Little League, Grand Mesa Baseball & Softball Club, and Grand Mesa Babe Ruth. Under his leadership, Grand Mesa has experienced tremendous growth, revitalization, and community impact.
During his tenure, Chris has overseen the realignment of league boundaries to better reflect Grand Mesa’s historical roots. He led critical infrastructure upgrades—including the replacement of the backstop on Field 2 and the remodeling of the concession stand, Shirt Shack, and board/community room, installation of a new playground, restoration and lighting of the community batting cages —enhancing both the player and spectator experience.
Chris has also been instrumental in growing the league’s competitive programming and bringing back tournament-level play. In 2020, during one of the most challenging years for youth sports, Chris played a pivotal role in returning baseball and softball to the community. That same year, he launched the High School Baseball League, giving more than 100 high school athletes—who had lost their season due to the pandemic—a chance to play, free of charge.
In 2025, Chris’s long-standing vision for a safe, well-lit, and welcoming playground at the Grand Mesa facility became a reality, providing a space for young players and siblings to enjoy year-round.
Since 2021, Chris has also served as Head Coach of the Grand Mesa Senior All-Star Team, leading the team to three Colorado State Championships, including the most recent title in 2025.
Among his proudest achievements is the creation of the “Play It Forward” program—a mission-driven initiative that collects donated and grant-funded equipment to support players in need. Through coach recommendations and board observations, the program ensures kids have access to high-quality gear while maintaining dignity and pride. Since its launch, Play It Forward has secured over $100,000 in equipment grants, providing:
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Over 200 pairs of cleats
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60+ softball fielding masks
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Hundreds of batting helmets
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Dozens of gloves, bats, and more
In recognition of his leadership and dedication, Chris was inducted into the Grand Mesa Legacy Garden in 2023.
Chris also contributes at the district level, serving as Umpire-in-Chief for Colorado District 1.