The Maria Pepe Little League Baseball® Legacy Series, a significant event celebrating female participation in baseball, is set to return to Williamsport, Pennsylvania, from June 6-8, 2025. This event follows the successful inaugural edition held in 2024 and aims to provide an unforgettable experience for young female athletes. Patrick Wilson, President and CEO of Little League, emphasized the organization's unwavering commitment to empowering girls in sports. The series will once again welcome 96 participants aged 11-12, selected through an application process that closes on March 1. Participants will enjoy games, activities, and accommodations at the historic Little League facilities.
Event Details and Highlights
In the heart of the vibrant summer, the town of Williamsport will once again host the Maria Pepe Little League Baseball® Legacy Series. From June 6-8, 2025, this prestigious event will bring together 96 talented young female baseball players, who will be divided into eight teams to compete over the weekend. The event kicks off with an opening evaluation clinic on Friday, followed by a minimum of three games per team throughout the weekend. These matches will take place at Howard J. Lamade Stadium and Volunteer Stadium, two iconic venues known for their rich history in Little League Baseball.
Participants will stay at the Dr. Creighton J. Hale International Grove dorms, accompanied by chaperones provided by Little League International. In addition to the games, the players will have access to various activities within the complex, ensuring a well-rounded and enriching experience. The registration fee of $50 covers all accommodations, meals, and activities, with financial assistance available for those who need it.
This event marks not only the anniversary of the first-ever Little League game played on June 6, 1939, but also coincides with National Little League Week, celebrated across the United States from June 9-14, 2025. Named after Maria Pepe, a trailblazer who championed girls' participation in Little League Baseball in the 1970s, the series honors her legacy and continues to inspire future generations of female athletes. Maria Pepe's story, enshrined in the Little League Hall of Excellence, serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and determination.
The impact of Maria Pepe's efforts has been profound, with 23 individuals having competed at the highest level in the Little League Baseball World Series. Her influence extends beyond the field, driving Little League's strategic initiatives to achieve equal participation opportunities for girls by 2032. Visitors can learn more about Maria's journey and the lasting impact she has had on the program at the World of Little League® Museum, reopening in February 2025.
From a journalist's perspective, the Maria Pepe Legacy Series underscores the importance of inclusivity and empowerment in youth sports. It highlights how pivotal moments in history can shape the future, creating new opportunities for underrepresented groups. By celebrating the achievements of past pioneers like Maria Pepe, we are reminded of the transformative power of sports and the positive changes they can bring to society. This event not only showcases talent but also fosters a sense of community and belonging among young female athletes, setting the stage for a brighter and more inclusive future in sports.