Elmhurst League Responds To 'Attacks'

ELMHURST, IL – Elmhurst Youth Baseball is accusing a resident of making "false" and "misleading" statements about the more than four-decade-old league.

The organization did not identify the person, only calling him a third party. But it appears to be John Colianne, who recently created a website and Facebook page for an effort called "Restore EYB."

"While we are unaware of the motivation behind these recent developments, we are deeply disappointed and remain steadfast in our commitment to integrity, transparency and service," the league's board said in a Fourth of July statement.

On his website, Colianne said Elmhurst Youth Baseball banned him from coaching again and that it recommended his boys not try out for the league's Elmhurst Extreme Baseball.

Instead, Colianne said he would coach for Rosemont-based Windy City Baseball. If enough Elmhurst boys take part, "we will be in a league in our area and not the city," he said.

At the same time, he said he launched "Restore EYB" to gather support in helping the league turn around.

"Our cause is dedicated to creating transparent, player-focused environments where talent and character development take precedence over politics and personal agendas," Colianne said on the website. "I would love to see EYB bring back baseball that is fun for everyone, emphasizing enjoyment over just winning!"

On the site, Colianne goes into specifics about his objections.

In its statement, the league said it "categorically" denied the accusations and the rumors that followed.

"The league is currently pursuing all options aimed at neutralizing these attacks to rectify the situation in a manner consistent with our league charter and constitution," the league said. "Little League and Elmhurst Youth Baseball will not tolerate threats, intimidation, and actions that put our league and our families at risk."