Stuart Sports Complex in Montgomery, was selected to be host to a major youth baseball tournament next year.
Ripken Baseball, a joint venture by brothers and former Major League Baseball players, Cal and Billy Ripken, announced its first multi-city tour through their newly added Ripken Select Tournaments program. The program includes a week-long event at Stuart Sports Complex to be held July 10-15, 2022.
Combining fields and experiences that make every young ballplayer feel like a big leaguer, Ripken Select Tournaments promises lifelong family memories to go along with opening ceremonies, skills competitions, player announcements, walk-up music, and a tournament appearance by a former Major League Baseball player.
Destinations were chosen based on the availability of professional quality sports facilities combined with family-friendly attractions and entertainment options. The tournament is expected to draw 45 teams from throughout the country, with an estimated economic impact of more than $990,000 on Aurora area lodging and hospitality businesses.
“We are a family-first experience focused on providing lifelong baseball memories, which is why our partnership with Aurora, Illinois is perfect for our inaugural Ripken Select Tournaments next Summer,” said Mike Kenney, executive vice president of Ripken Baseball.
“Not only will teams enjoy a Big League atmosphere on-site throughout the week, but families will have the opportunity to create memories off the field in the Chicago area with unforgettable sight-seeing and entertainment after the game.”
The Aurora Area Convention & Visitors Bureau was a partner with the Fox Valley Park District to bring the tournament to Stuart Sports Complex.
“Aurora and the Chicagoland region is rich in baseball history thanks to two of the most storied franchises in Major League Baseball,” said Pete Garlock, director of sales for the Aurora Area CVB.
“Baseball is in our blood here and hosting an event like the Ripken Select Tournament and being associated with one of the greatest players of all time is an honor for everyone involved. We in the Aurora Area will do our best to present a first-class event, both on and off the field for the athletes and their families and friends.”
—Aurora Area Convention & Visitors Bureau