Springfield Hosts 12U Mid-Atlantic Cal Ripken Tournament

After working hard all season, practicing each week, competing in tournaments and games all season, Springfield’s SAA 12U baseball team is ready to take on the Cal Ripken Mid-Atlantic Tournament in their hometown. 

The tournament will take place at Netherwood Park Fields. Opening Ceremonies commence Wednesday, July 27 at 4 p.m. and will be immediately followed by a skills competition and home run derby.

Springfield's 12U team (youths aged 12 and under) will compete against other 12U teams representing Maryland, western New York, eastern New York, Delaware, northwest Pennsylvania, southeast Pennsylvania, northern New Jersey,  southern New Jersey and metropolitan New York.

Tournament games begin July 28 followed by three days of play. Three teams will advance from each bracket into the next round. Quarterfinals will be held July 31 at 11 a.m., with semifinals at 4 p.m. The championship game will be played on August 1 at 11 a.m. Tournament champions will advance to the Cal Ripken World Series in Visalia, CA.

Springfield previously hosted the Mid-Atlantic Regional Tournament in 2010.  Springfield’s own SAA 12-Blue team won the tournament and proceeded to Wilson, N.C. to compete in the 2010 Cal Ripken World Series. The team made it to the quarterfinals before being eliminated. 

Former Philadelphia Athletic's pitcher Bobby Shantz will join Coach Joe Johnson and his 2010 12-U team in the opening ceremonies this Wednesday. 

Local businesses and organizations such as C&M Sporting Goods, Slack's Hoagie Shack, Days Inn, Springfield Republican Party and Central Park Restaurant are sponsoring the tournament.  

Volunteers are still needed, especially those who are qualified to work a first aid tent. If interested in volunteering, please contact Lisa Todaro at lmtodaro19@comcast.net. 

Be sure to check Springfield Patch for coverage of the events.

Click here for the upcoming games schedule.