In a significant development on Tuesday, the Iowa High School Athletic Association (IHSAA) press release unveiled the locations for the high school baseball state tournament over the next four years, from 2025 to 2028. This news brings about notable changes and exciting opportunities for baseball enthusiasts across the state.

Unveiling the Future of Iowa High School Baseball Tournaments

2025: Sioux City and Carroll

This summer, the split-site tournament will make its debut in Sioux City and Carroll. Sioux City's Lewis & Clark Park, with its 3,800-seat stadium that serves as the home of the minor league Sioux City Explorers, will host Class 4A and Class 3A games in 2025 from July 21 to 25. It marks the first time an IHSAA team championship will be played in Sioux City. The one-year agreement ensures a unique experience for the participating teams and fans.Carroll, on the other hand, will continue to be the home for 2A and 1A games as part of a four-year agreement starting from 2025. Merchants Park has undergone offseason upgrades, enhancing its lighting, dugouts, bleacher seating, and press box, providing a more conducive environment for the tournament.

2026 - 2028: Cedar Rapids and Carroll

Veterans Memorial Stadium in Cedar Rapids, which became a state baseball site for the first time since the 1970s in 2024, will host 4A and 3A games again as part of a three-year arrangement starting in 2026. The stadium is set to provide an excellent platform for the teams to showcase their skills.Carroll will remain a crucial part of the tournament, hosting 2A and 1A games throughout the three-year period. The consistent presence of Carroll in the tournament ensures that schools and student-athletes from different regions have a familiar and welcoming venue.

Tournament Dates and Beyond

Pending Unified Calendar approval, the tournament dates beyond 2025 are set as follows: July 20 - 24, 2026; July 19 - 23, 2027; and July 17 - 21, 2028. These dates provide a clear schedule for teams and fans to plan and look forward to the upcoming tournaments.The IHSAA's efforts in securing these locations and ensuring first-class facilities for the state baseball tournament demonstrate their commitment to promoting the sport and providing memorable experiences for the participants. With the addition of Sioux City and the return to Cedar Rapids and Carroll, the future of Iowa high school baseball tournaments looks bright.