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August 29-31 - Disney's Wide World of Sports : The Baseball Youth Roadtrip made its way to Orlando, FL for its final stop of this amazing tour.  We went to the Disney Wide World of Sports for the Turn Back the Clock Weekend Tournament. 

This stop was a complete success and we definitely put smiles on the faces of all those kids!  They were shocked when we told them that everything was free, and they took adavantage of it. From Airhead candies to baseball cards, those kids loaded up.  

This stop concludes our Roadtrip for this summer and it's been a great one.  We'd like to thank all the players, kids, coaches and families for their support and enthusiasm! It's made this trip an awesome experience for us and hopefully for you too! Be sure to keep checking out BaseballYouth.com for the latest news on what's going on with us!

August 29-31 - Disney's Wide World of Sports

The Baseball Youth Roadtrip made its way to Orlando, FL for its final ...

Updated: May 21, 2009 12:26pm PST

August 24:  Grandslam Back 2 Skool Bash - Knoxville, TN : The Baseball Youth Roadtrip continued on to Knoxville, TN for the Grand Slam Back 2 School Bash.  We arrived first thing in the morning, and shortly thereafter all the players started to pour in.  

They found out we were giving away Topps and Upper Deck baseball cards, they couldn’t believe it!  By noon there was a line to play Backyard Baseball on the PS2 and Nintendo Wii.  I think some players would of skipped their game to keep playing! 

Knoxville, TN was another successful stop for us and we’re looking forward to coming back next year.  As for this year, we will continue our trip by going to Orlando, FL for the Disney’s Turn Back the Clock Weekend.  Be sure to stay posted on our website, Baseballyouth.com, for our tournaments to come!

August 24: Grandslam Back 2 Skool Bash - Knoxville, TN

The Baseball Youth Roadtrip continued on to Knoxville, TN for the Gran ...

Updated: Aug 24, 2008 5:09pm PST

August 21-23 - National Youth Baseball Championships - Memphis, TN : The Baseball Youth Roadtrip went full swing back into things by heading to Memphis, TN for The National Youth Baseball Championship.  This tournament was one of the biggest ones we’ve been too.  From Opening Ceremonies to the last pitch of the last game that place was packed.  

The players were so excited when we showed up and word traveled fast that they were able to use the 2009 models of the Louisville Sluggers.  With that and all the free stuff we were giving away, how could they go wrong!  

We had a great time in Memphis and we’re definitely looking forward to coming back.  As for the roadtrip, we continue in Knoxville, TN for what hopes to be another great tournament.  Be sure to check out BaseballYouth.com for the updated pictures!

August 21-23 - National Youth Baseball Championships - Memphis, TN

The Baseball Youth Roadtrip went full swing back into things by headin ...

Updated: Aug 22, 2008 3:47pm PST

August 13-16: Cal Ripken World Series - Aberdeen, MD : The Baseball Youth Roadtrip traveled to Aberdeen, MD for the Ripken World Series.  This was a great experience for us, let alone the players involved.  There were teams from across the country there as well as across the world.  From Japan to Mexico to Australia to California to Kentucky, players and families joined together to participate in this awesome tournament.  Those were just a few of the many teams that were involved in the World Series.  

The Baseball Youth setup became more popular each day as the word got out that we were giving away free Topps and Upper Deck baseball cards and a chance to play Backyard Baseball.  By championship Saturday you couldn’t look out in the crowd without seeing every other person with a set of Airhead thundersticks making noise for their teams!

The championship game was as good as it gets.  Jupiter, FL defeated Lexington, KY to move to the championship game to face the defending champions of Mexico.  The players definitely gave a championship performance as it went into extra innings where  in the bottom of the 7th inning, Jupiter hit a 2-run walk-off homerun to win the World Series.  It had to be an unbelievable feeling for him and his team as they are now the Cal Ripken World Series Champions.  

The Baseball Youth Roadtrip had an unforgettable time and we can’t wait to go back next year.  As for our summer roadtrip, we will be taking a little break before we get back at it.  So be sure to keep checking our website, Baseballyouth.com, to find out what our next stop is!

August 13-16: Cal Ripken World Series - Aberdeen, MD

The Baseball Youth Roadtrip traveled to Aberdeen, MD for the Ripken Wo ...

Updated: Aug 18, 2008 7:01am PST

August 10: Fletcher Baseball Championships - Palmyra, PA : The Baseball Youth Roadtrip made its way to Palmyra, PA for another great tournament.  The complex was located out in a very open area, so it was pretty quiet out there, until Baseball Youth got there! 

The players loved everything we had to offer, especially those Airhead candies.  They stocked up on those to get the energy they needed to play some great baseball.  Everyone seemed to have a great time. We’re definitely looking forward to going back on the next trip. 

The Roadtrip’s next stop will be the Ripken World Series in Aberdeen, MD.  We’re looking forward to it, so be sure to check out BaseballYouth.com to see how it went!

August 10: Fletcher Baseball Championships - Palmyra, PA

The Baseball Youth Roadtrip made its way to Palmyra, PA for another gr ...

Updated: Aug 11, 2008 7:16am PST

August 9: Cooperstown All-Star Village (Week 10) - Cooperstown, NY : The Baseball Youth Roadtrip came back to the Cooperstown All-Start Village for a jam packed Opening Ceremonies.  

There were so many players there from all across the country, even California! Although they were all different teams, they did have one thing in common… they love free stuff! Each team managed to find the right color Disney wristband to match their uniforms.  They also played Backyard Baseball on the PS2 and Nintendo Wii non-stop.  I don’t know who had a better time, us or the kids!  

We had a great time in Cooperstown and we definitely can’t wait to come back, but until then we have to continue the trip.  Our next stop is in Palmyra, PA for another tournament.  We’re looking forward to it, so watch out for the updated pictures on our website!

August 9: Cooperstown All-Star Village (Week 10) - Cooperstown, NY

The Baseball Youth Roadtrip came back to the Cooperstown All-Start Vil ...

Updated: Aug 09, 2008 5:25pm PST

August 7: Cooperstown All-Star Village (Week 9) - Cooperstown, NY : The Baseball Youth Roadtrip found its way back to the Cooperstown All-Star Village for a great finale to an awesome tournament.  

Even though there were only 4 teams left in tournament play, everyone was still there and enjoyed all the free stuff that we had to give.  Almost every kid had bulging pockets filled with Topps and Upper Deck cards along with Airhead candies!

The Roadtrip will stay in Cooperstown and be back on Saturday for the Opening Ceremonies of the start of what hopes to be another big tournament.  Don’t forget to get on BaseballYouth.com so you can see for yourself!

August 7: Cooperstown All-Star Village (Week 9) - Cooperstown, NY

The Baseball Youth Roadtrip found its way back to the Cooperstown All- ...

Updated: Aug 07, 2008 5:45pm PST

August 6:  Cooperstown Baseball World 12U - Cooperstown, NY : The Baseball Youth Roadtrip made its way to Oneonta College for Baseball World.  We  felt like we were on top of the world because the fields and where we set up were up in the mountains!  

The weather made it challenging because it was so windy, but it wasn’t anything that the Baseball Youth guys couldn’t handle!  The players loved all the free Topps and Upper Deck cards that we gave them and they couldn’t get enough.  

After we leave Oneonta College, the roadtrip will make its way back to the Cooperstown All-Star Village for the closing ceremonies and championship game.  We’re definitely looking forward to it, so make sure you stay posted to BaseballYouth.com to see what’s next for us.

August 6: Cooperstown Baseball World 12U - Cooperstown, NY

The Baseball Youth Roadtrip made its way to Oneonta College for Baseba ...

Updated: Aug 07, 2008 5:33pm PST

August 5 : Cooperstown All-Star Village (Week 9) - Cooperstown, NY : The Baseball Youth Roadtrip made it’s way to Cooperstown, NY to the All-Star Village for another awesome tournament.  

We’ve been used to waking up early in the morning and setting up in the heat, but this time we set up in 58 degree weather, we were freezing!  From the moment we had the tables set up, we were swarmed with excited players and parents as they loaded up on all the goodies we had.  We noticed that players started off with all the free Airheads they could handle, then they made their way to free Disney Frisbees and wristbands, after that they stuffed their pockets with Topps and Upper Deck Cards.  Once they made their stops there they had no choice but to sit down, relax, and play some Backyard Baseball ’09 on our PS2 and Nintendo Wii.  

The All-Star Village was a beautiful complex and we’re looking forward to going back on Thursday.  We have one stop before that and it’s at Oneonta College for Baseball World where we hope to put smiles on faces.  Be sure to keep checking out our website for our latest stops!

August 5 : Cooperstown All-Star Village (Week 9) - Cooperstown, NY

The Baseball Youth Roadtrip made it’s way to Cooperstown, NY to the ...

Updated: Aug 05, 2008 6:12pm PST

August 3:  Sports At The Beach Summer Classic (Week 5) - Rehoboth, DE : The Baseball Youth Roadtrip went back to the Sports at the Beach Complex but this time it was for opening ceremonies and skills competition.  

The players were excited when they realized everything was free, and they loved the Airhead T-shirts.  They also stocked up on Disney wristbands, which if you look closely they were wearing during the skills competition.  I don’t know if it was the new gear or the live DJ that got them pumped up, but they definitely showed their excellent skills off!

We loved the beautiful facilities and the awesome teams at the Sports on the Beach Complex.  We can’t wait to go back!  The roadtrip will make its way to Cooperstown, NY for what hopes to be another complete success.  Remember, BaseballYouth.com will keep you posted on all the great tournaments we visit!

August 3: Sports At The Beach Summer Classic (Week 5) - Rehoboth, DE

The Baseball Youth Roadtrip went back to the Sports at the Beach Compl ...

Updated: Aug 05, 2008 6:17pm PST

August 1:  Sports At The Beach Summer Classic (Week 4) - Rehoboth, DE : The Baseball Youth Roadtrip made its way to Rehoboth Beach, Deleware to participate in a tournament at the Sports on the Beach Complex.  When we were setting up we literally thought we were on a beach because we set up on sand, it was awesome!

The kids and players loved the Disney booth because of the wristbands we were giving away.  Even the umpires were coming up to us after the game to find out how to get them because they saw so many players wearing them in the games!

The Roadtrip will stay in Deleware and is looking forward to opening ceremonies and a great skills competition at the Sports on the Beach complex on Sunday.  Be sure to check out the website for pictures of this next event!

August 1: Sports At The Beach Summer Classic (Week 4) - Rehoboth, DE

The Baseball Youth Roadtrip made its way to Rehoboth Beach, Deleware t ...

Updated: Aug 02, 2008 2:07pm PST

July 30: North Myrtle Beach, SC - Triple Crown 8U-9U Summer Nationals : The Baseball Youth Roadtrip made its way to Central Park in North Myrtle Beach for the opening ceremonies of what seemed to be another great tournament.  Although it was humid and hot, that didn’t stop the players from enjoying our set-up when they weren’t showing off their skills on the field.  

The players couldn’t believe that everything was free as they loaded up with Topps and Upper Deck baseball cards before they made their way to the free Airheads.  We really enjoyed this skills competition almost as much as the players did!

Baseball Youth’s next stop is Rehoboth Beach, Deleware where we hope to excite everyone like we did in Myrtle Beach.  Be sure to get on BaseballYouth.com to check us out!

July 30: North Myrtle Beach, SC - Triple Crown 8U-9U Summer Nationals

The Baseball Youth Roadtrip made its way to Central Park in North Myrt ...

Updated: Jul 30, 2008 4:25pm PST

July 29: Myrtle Beach, SC - Ocean Breeze Tourney / Ripken Experience : The Baseball Youth Roadtrip went back to the Ripken Experience in Myrtle Beach for what seemed to be one of the biggest tournaments there that we had seen.  There were players and kids everywhere having a great time loading up on all the free goodies we had.  

I’m pretty sure that every kid that was at the Ripken Experience left with a Disney Frisbee and at least 2 wristbands.  The kids were also waiting in line to play Backyard Baseball ’09 on the PS2 and Nintendo Wii.  

The Baseball Youth Roadtrip will make its next stop at Central Park in Myrtle Beach for what hopes to be an exciting opening ceremonies for another awesome tournament.  Be sure to check out the pictures to see the success!

July 29: Myrtle Beach, SC - Ocean Breeze Tourney / Ripken Experience

The Baseball Youth Roadtrip went back to the Ripken Experience in Myrt ...

Updated: Jul 30, 2008 4:39pm PST

July 27: North Myrtle Beach, SC - Triple Crown 10U-12U Summer Nationals : The Baseball Youth Road Trip started its third trip to Myrtle Beach with a stop at the Triple Crown 10U-12U Summer Nationals.  We showed up at the skills competition at Carolina Forest High School where the players had the chance to show off their talents.  

Despite the muggy heat this stop was a complete success because there were so many teams and fans there.  The players were drawn to the Disney tent immediately because of the free wristbands.  It was cool to see the kids actually wear them while they were playing!  We had a great time because the kids had so much fun.  

The next stop that the road trip makes will be back to the Ripken Experience for what hopes to be another great experience.  Be sure to check out the pictures on our website!

July 27: North Myrtle Beach, SC - Triple Crown 10U-12U Summer Nationals

The Baseball Youth Road Trip started its third trip to Myrtle Beach wi ...

Updated: Jul 28, 2008 3:36pm PST

July 25-26: Morganton, NC - Gatorade Atlantic Coast Championship : The Baseball Youth Road Trip traveled to Morganton, North Carolina to take the Gatorade Atlantic Coast Championship by storm.  Although the great state of North Carolina may be known for basketball, it was evident that they take great pride in their baseball as well, judging by the facilities alone.  

The players didn’t know what to think when we showed up giving away so much free stuff.  Their faces dropped when we told them that we had free Airheads and Upper Deck and Topps baseball cards.  The kid’s took a break from winning free stuff by relaxing and playing a little Backyard Baseball.  Everyone had a great time and it made the trip very enjoyable for us. 

The Road Trip continues as we go back to Myrtle Beach for a third and final time for a couple more great tournaments.  Be sure to check them out on our website!

July 25-26: Morganton, NC - Gatorade Atlantic Coast Championship

The Baseball Youth Road Trip traveled to Morganton, North Carolina to ...

Updated: Jul 27, 2008 1:44pm PST

July 22-23: Myrtle Beach, SC - Big Kahuna Tourney / Ripken Experience : The Baseball Youth road trip found its way back to the Ripken Experience for another exciting tournament.  The facilities were great as always, but not as great as the kids!

The players and coaches were thrilled that they got to use the 2009 Louisville Sluggers in the games, and we heard nothing but great things about them.  The Backyard Baseball tent was filled with players waiting in line so they could get a chance to play the new 2009 Backyard Baseball game on PS2 and Wii.  

We believe that the Ripken Experience enjoyed having us there as much as we enjoyed being there.  Our next stop will be to the other Carolina State, where we hope to have another great tournament.

July 22-23: Myrtle Beach, SC - Big Kahuna Tourney / Ripken Experience

The Baseball Youth road trip found its way back to the Ripken Experien ...

Updated: Jul 23, 2008 6:00pm PST

July 21: North Charleston, SC - Fletcher National Championships : The Baseball Youth East tour made it’s way to North Charleston where nothing could stop the kids from having fun, not even the heat.  Despite the 99 degree temperature and the heat warning, this stop was a complete success.  

	The players were immediately drawn to the Backyard Baseball tent where a line was soon formed to play.  Along with Backyard Baseball, Airheads was also a popular booth as the mom’s even lined up to take part of the action.  

	We loved North Charleston and the facilities we were at.  Our next stop will be in Myrtle Beach at the Ripken Experience for another great tournament.  Who knows, maybe we’ll even see Mr. Ironman himself, Cal Ripken Jr.!

July 21: North Charleston, SC - Fletcher National Championships

The Baseball Youth East tour made it’s way to North Charleston where ...

Updated: Jul 21, 2008 7:26pm PST

July 19-20: Florence, SC - Champions Colossal Conquest at Freedom Florence : The Freedom Florence Park was a great location for Baseball Youth to drop off all kinds of goodies.  Although we were only here for two short days, the kids got all they could handle of cool Disney, Upper Deck, and Topps stuff.

The Airhead booth was a tuff booth to man in Florence.  The kids loved the candy and Thundersticks but wouldn’t stop until they won the t-shirts.  I bet there were a hundred kids running around with the Airhead shirts representing their winning ways.

The Swingaway was a great spot for all the youngsters to try out all the new TPX bats; and that’s exactly what they did.  They wore that Swingaway out using the new Exo’s and Tritons.  

Our next stop is in Charleston, where we hope the tropical storm will miss us.  We need to show Charleston what Baseball Youth is all about and make sure that each and every kid wins free cards and candy.

July 19-20: Florence, SC - Champions Colossal Conquest at Freedom Florence

The Freedom Florence Park was a great location for Baseball Youth to d ...

Updated: Jul 20, 2008 5:52pm PST

July 15-16:  Dixie Youth South Carolina State Championship - Columbia, SC : The Dixie Youth South Carolina State Championships was the next stop for the East Tour Road Trip.  There were homeruns being hit left and right with Baseball Youth knocking this stop out of the park.

This stop set a record for Baseball Youth.  The East Tour has never seen so many Disney wristbands worn at once.  There were kids with four on each arm and three on each leg.  They must have really been sweating!

Airhead Extremes were the crowd favorite in Columbia where we went through three boxes.  Upper Deck and Topps were a hit like always.  When the kids hear free cards, they can’t stop until they have at least two handfuls.

The East Tour can’t wait to head to the Champions Colossal Conquest at Freedom Florence and can only hope that it will be as fun as the State Championships in Columbia.  See you soon Florence!

July 15-16: Dixie Youth South Carolina State Championship - Columbia, SC

The Dixie Youth South Carolina State Championships was the next stop f ...

Updated: Jul 16, 2008 1:15pm PST

July 13-14:  Myrtle Beach, SC - Surf's Up Tourney / Ripken Experience : How many people have been to the Ripken Experience?  If  not, the Ripken Experience needs to be moved to the top of the list. The East Tour just finished their second stop at the state of the art facility and couldn’t have asked for any more.  Let’s just say Cal knew what he was doing when he put that place together.  

It was hot two days out at the fields and with temperatures way above ninety; sweatbands were a necessity.  Disney eye black stickers were a great addition to the sweatbands to help shield that hot sun.

Major League Baseball Memorabilia was the prize for one lucky fan that won the Pack War.  He was super excited to win a huge Derek Lee figurine by having the winning card.

The sport turf fields were a great place for the kids, of all ages, to try out the new Slugger bats.  After renting out fifteen bats, the players had nothing but good things to say, especially about the new Triton.

July 13-14: Myrtle Beach, SC - Surf's Up Tourney / Ripken Experience

How many people have been to the Ripken Experience? If not, the Ripk ...

Updated: Jul 14, 2008 3:23pm PST

July 12: Myrtle Beach, SC - USSSA 13-Under World Series : Baseball Youth Road Trip was excited see their first action on a college field.  The home of the 13U USSSA World Series in Myrtle Beach was held at Coastal Carolina’s University baseball field.  The field was amazing and the kids had no idea the fun they were going to have with Baseball Youth.

The Louisville Slugger tent stole the show as the 2009 TPX baseball bats had everyone drooling.  The kids tried out each bat on the Swingaway, but the overall favorite was the yellow Exo.

As hot as it was, everyone could use a little extra energy, so all the kids stocked up on Airheads and Extremes.  Backyard Baseball tent was a hot spot also as players were taking a break from the action but still playing baseball.  

Baseball Youth will be back at the Cal Ripken Experience tomorrow for opening ceremonies of the Surfs Up Tourney so stop by, check us out, and get in on all the action.

July 12: Myrtle Beach, SC - USSSA 13-Under World Series

Baseball Youth Road Trip was excited see their first action on a colle ...

Updated: Jul 12, 2008 5:53pm PST

July 10: Myrtle Beach, SC - Tidal Wave Tournament/ Ripken Experience : The Road Trip was glad to finally reach Myrtle Beach to attend the Tidal Wave Tournament at the Ripken Experience.  The facilities were incredible but not near as impressive as some of the teams that hung out with us all day.

The kids couldn’t get enough of Backyard Baseball on the Wii in Myrtle Beach.  One kid was undefeated in four straight games!  The new Swingaway, a portable batting tool, was a great pickup as all the kids got to try out the 2009 Louisville Sluggers. 

The Airhead and Disney booth had steady lines all day as the fans and players stocked up on candy and wristbands.  You have to check out our pictures to see what two of the kids did with all the Disney frisbees.

The East Tour had a great day at the Ripken Experience and are looking forward to coming back to Myrtle Beach on Sunday.  See you all then.

July 10: Myrtle Beach, SC - Tidal Wave Tournament/ Ripken Experience

The Road Trip was glad to finally reach Myrtle Beach to attend the Tid ...

Updated: Jul 10, 2008 3:43pm PST

July 8-9:  Summerville, SC - Fletcher Championships : The East tour was glad to be in Summerville, South Carolina for the Fletcher Championships.  The Championships at Gahagan was the perfect place to set up shop and allow the kids to have an action packed day.  
 
Disney sweatbands were the hot prize as every kid wanted to be decked out in their colors.  Disney frisbees were also a fun item as every player and fan that got one had to go on a  small route and catch it! The Road Trip crew and the players couldn’t keep their hands of the Airhead Extremes. 

Upper Deck and Topps cards were being handed out by the handfuls.   Thousands of packs were opened as each person was trying to find their favorite player.  Summerville’s favorite player of the day was Chipper Jones.

We can only hope that the rest of our stops in South Carolina are as awesome as Summerville was.  The Road Trip is headed to Myrtle Beach now, and can’t wait to see all of you there!

July 8-9: Summerville, SC - Fletcher Championships

The East tour was glad to be in Summerville, South Carolina for the Fl ...

Updated: Jul 09, 2008 5:43pm PST

July 3-6: Orlando, FL - Disney's Wide World of Sports : Baseball Youth was excited to get its first taste of international baseball at the Disney’s Salute to Baseball at the Wide World of Sports Complex.  International teams that were represented were from the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, and even Saudi Arabia!  These kids couldn’t get enough free stuff at the Disney Booth.  Wristbands were the fan favorite as several kids were loaded from head to toe in Disney Games sweatbands.

The international teams took full advantage of the Louisville Slugger booth where most teams rented the bats that propelled them to victory.  Airhead thundersticks were a huge hit as each fan cheered on their teams by banging the sticks together.  Most fans couldn’t believe that we were giving away free baseball cards of their favorite players, but each person kept coming back to see if they could get that Albert Pujols Upper Deck card.
  
The Baseball Youth Road Trip crew was lucky enough to meet a great guy, Scott St. George, who even got the road trip crew free passes into any Disney Theme Park they wanted!  The East Road Trip is done in the state of Florida but looks forward to coming back for Disney’s Turn Back the Clock Weekend in late August.

July 3-6: Orlando, FL - Disney's Wide World of Sports

Baseball Youth was excited to get its first taste of international bas ...

Updated: Jul 04, 2008 6:53pm PST

June 30-July 1: Panama City Beach, FL - Grand Slam World Series (Session 1) : Back to Panama City Beach once again, except this time it was the Grand Slam World Series! A lot of the same kids were back from the last Grand Slam tournament, and they were all excited to see the Road Trip convoy roll up.

Everyone got the chance to check out all that the Road Trip has to offer once again, and we got to meet more awesome teams from around the Southeast. Our booths were jam packed with kids who couldn’t wait to get their hands on all of our awesome free gifts from Topps, Upper Deck, Airheads, and The Disney Channel. These kids even got to check out the Wii version of Backyard Baseball as we got it set up for the first time this summer.

Another great baseball atmosphere in PCB, it’s always a pleasure for the East Coast Crew when we get to set up in Frank Brown Park. We are headed to Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex next in Orlando, where our fun on the tour is sure to continue!

June 30-July 1: Panama City Beach, FL - Grand Slam World Series (Session 1)

Back to Panama City Beach once again, except this time it was the Gran ...

Updated: Jul 01, 2008 8:54pm PST

June 28-29: Destin, FL - USTBA National Championships : We hit Destin, Florida for the USTBA tournament and had a great time with all of the teams.  We got there for the opening ceremonies and had the chance to meet all the players a day early.

We were busy the entire time we were at the park with kids piling up at all of our booths for the chance at our awesome prizes.  The kids got their normal dose of Airheads, Louisville Slugger, Topps and Upper Deck, and also had the opportunity to be the first to check out our brand new Disney Channel set up.

We handed out all kinds of new Disney Channel gear including Frisbees, and wristbands.  The kids had an awesome time hanging out at our tents and the East Coast Crew had just as much fun.  We are headed back to Panama now for our last stop in the Panhandle before heading south to Orlando.  Check back soon for more updates from the tour.

June 28-29: Destin, FL - USTBA National Championships

We hit Destin, Florida for the USTBA tournament and had a great time w ...

Updated: Jun 29, 2008 5:19am PST

June 23-June 24:  Panama City Beach, FL - Simply The Best World Series : After some last minute changes the East Coast crew was happy to get the chance to get back to the Simply The Best World series, after the amazing opening ceremony we attended.  

However it wasn’t just us that were all smiles, the kids were glad to see the Baseball Youth Road Trip truck and trailer pull up to the park.  Before we could even get out of the truck kids lined up to take full advantage of the fun we brought with us.

So the East Coast Crew did what we do best, hand out a ton of awesome prizes and had all kinds of fun with the kids of the tournament.  Disney Channel, Airheads, Louisville Slugger, Backyard Baseball, and Topps and Upper Deck, were all these kids were talking about while leaving our area to go play ball.

We are now headed to the west of the Panhandle, for a tournament in Destin.  Check back in a few days for a recap of our next stop on the Baseball Youth Road Trip 2K8.

June 23-June 24: Panama City Beach, FL - Simply The Best World Series

After some last minute changes the East Coast crew was happy to get th ...

Updated: Jun 24, 2008 3:13pm PST

June 22:  Laguna Beach, FL - Simply The Best Opening Ceremonies : Baseball Youth Road Trip was super excited to walk into a gym full of crazed kids ready to get the Simply the Best World Series started in Laguna Beach, FL.  Opening ceremonies were awesome, but it was obvious the kids were excited to hit the booths.

Upper Deck and Topps cards were going like hot cakes.  The kids couldn’t get enough and were coming back for more and more.  The Mickey Mantle Topps card was the fan favorite as each player was digging to find one.

The new gloves and bats that Louisville Slugger had to offer shocked many of the players and even parents.  The Triton was the favorite, as most of the kids liked the drop ten that TPX has made for them.

The Air Head booth was hard to man at this stop because Ian was constantly filling up the candy and t-shirts the kids were winning. Sorry to all the parents for the sugar highs their kids had received at the Air Head booth, they just couldn’t get enough.

Baseball Youth is excited to get the party started in Panama City Beach this coming week.  Be sure to check back in with us, so you can see all the fun we’re having in Florida.

June 22: Laguna Beach, FL - Simply The Best Opening Ceremonies

Baseball Youth Road Trip was super excited to walk into a gym full of ...

Updated: Jun 22, 2008 4:19pm PST

June 19-21: Panama City Beach, FL - Grand Slam at the Beach : Grand Slam at the Beach was a great stop for the East tour on Baseball Youth Road Trip.  The weather was perfect and all the kids were trying to stay cool under our tents while they weren’t between the lines.

Backyard Baseball was a hot spot as most the kids were trying to stay off their feet in between games.  There wasn’t a better spot to take a load off than the Backyard tent where most of them played several games of baseball on the PS2. 

The blowup-batting cage was the perfect spot for everyone to try out all the new TPX bats, and that’s what they did.  There was a steady line all day for people to get their cuts in, even a few teams warming up for games.

The kids loved the Pack War games with the winning card being a Kenny Loften Upper Deck.  He had the most career triples out of all the cards.  That lucky fan took home a Michael Young figurine.  

The East tour is excited to get the chance to be at the opening ceremonies for Simple The Best World Series. Hope to see you there!

June 19-21: Panama City Beach, FL - Grand Slam at the Beach

Grand Slam at the Beach was a great stop for the East tour on Baseball ...

Updated: Jun 21, 2008 7:42pm PST

June 15: Gulfport, MS - Baseball at the Beach : Nothing like the beach in the summertime and Gulfport, Mississippi made for the perfect first beach stop of the East Coast Tour.  We made it to the championship day for the Baseball at the Beach Tournament and all the teams were anxious to get there final games going and hang out with us in our area of the park!

We set up right in the middle of the action, and all the players from the teams and kids at the park had the perfect opportunity to take full advantage of everything Baseball Youth had to offer!  The Cajun accents were in full force as a lot of teams from Louisiana made it to this year’s tournaments.  Kids swarmed the Disney and Baseball Youth tent, piling up on awesome prizes from Disney and Upper Deck and Topps.

We handed out so many free Airheads candy and prizes it kept us going back and forth to the trailer to stock up.  The Louisville Slugger tent was popping again as kids tried on all the new 2009 mitts and batting gloves.

The East Coast Crew has been working hard for all the fans of baseball on the eastside.  We will have a few days off now as we head to Panama City Beach, Florida for our first stop in the Sunshine State!

June 15: Gulfport, MS - Baseball at the Beach

Nothing like the beach in the summertime and Gulfport, Mississippi mad ...

Updated: Jun 15, 2008 9:56pm PST

June 13-14:  Southaven, MS - Snowden Grove Classice : We finally reached our first big tournament of the summer and boy was it a site to see.  Southaven, Mississippi had a wonderful complex set and ready to go for the Snowden Grove Classic.  We got set up on the opening night and were immediately bombarded with kids checking out our gear.

We rented out a record number of Louisville Slugger bats, the kids that used them so much they couldn’t wait to get their hands on their own.  When they were done looking at all the Louisville Slugger gear they cruised on over to the Backyard Baseball and Airheads tent for some awesome video games, and sweet candy!

The Big wheel had its work cut out for it, as the kids lined up for a chance to spin for some awesome baseball cards from Topps and Upper Deck, and Disney Channel goodies!  The Baseball Youth Road Trip was very welcomed for our first stop in Mississippi, and we can’t to get back to the wonderful atmosphere next year.

For our next stop we are traveling across the entire state to Gulfport, Mississippi.  We will be at championship day for the Baseball at the Beach tourney, and can’t wait to get down there and hang out with the teams there!

June 13-14: Southaven, MS - Snowden Grove Classice

We finally reached our first big tournament of the summer and boy was ...

Updated: Jun 15, 2008 1:21pm PST

June 9-10: Fort Oglethorpe, GA - Pre-District All-Star Tournament : There is nothing like some good old southern hospitality.  As soon as we arrived in Ft. Oglethorpe, Georgia for the Pre-District All-Start Tournament, we were treated like royalty.  

The guys running the tournament and all the kids were so happy for us to be there it just added to all the fun we had.

We were bombarded with kids wanting to get their hands on some great stuff.  We gave out so many awesome prizes we made sure everyone got a Disney Channel bag to carry everything in.  The Airheads tent was the place to be as kids spun the wheel to win some t-shirts and delicious candy.  With their bellies full of flavor, nothing settled their stomachs more than some awesome baseball cards from Topps and Upper Deck.

Our main man Andy got the chance to take on the kids in some classic Backyard Baseball games, while Mike and Ian played catch with the teams and the new Louisville Slugger gloves.  Mike’s nasty knuckle ball proved too hard for the kids and even me to catch, we are pretty sure he taught Boston’s Tim Wakefield how to throw.

There was nothing but please and thank you out of these great kids mouth.  What a great time we had in this small town of Georgia, they sure know how to represent the game of baseball.  We are headed to Southaven, Mississippi now, just another stop for the East Coast Crew on the Baseball Youth Road Trip 2008.

June 9-10: Fort Oglethorpe, GA - Pre-District All-Star Tournament

There is nothing like some good old southern hospitality. As soon as ...

Updated: Jun 11, 2008 3:21pm PST

June 8: Cincinnati, OH - USSSA Baseball Summer Slugfest : We finally got some perfect weather on a beautiful Sunday in Cincinnati at the USSSA Baseball Summer Slugfest.  It was championship day at Rumpke Park, and all the teams were on edge trying to win the first place title.  Lucky for them we were there with all the Baseball Youth Road Trip’s amazing activities to help ease their nerves before and after games.

It was literally non-stop action as kids came pouring in, loading up on baseball cards, prizes, and candy.  The Louisville Slugger tent was out of control and we loaned out a record number of bats for the kids to try out in their games…for FREE!  

Pack Wars were in full effect this day; we even had some of the kids’ parents getting in on the action, helping out to see if their little slugger won the bigger prize.  After the intense pack war games kids spun the big wheel, and walked away with some awesome gear from The Disney Channel, and Airheads.  There wasn’t a frown in the crowd today and everyone walked away with tons of awesome prizes and a big smile on their face.

The kids of the tournament are what baseball is all about; with great competition on the field and great fun at the Baseball Youth Road Trip tents, it truly went together to make one awesome day.  The East Coast Crew is back on the road and we’re headed to Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia for some more Baseball Youth adventures!

June 8: Cincinnati, OH - USSSA Baseball Summer Slugfest

We finally got some perfect weather on a beautiful Sunday in Cincinnat ...

Updated: Jun 08, 2008 7:38pm PST

June 6-7: West Chester, OH - Cincinnati Flames Summer Classic : It seems like a storm cloud follows the East tour crew around.  After getting rained out completely in West Virginia we headed to West Chester, Ohio for the Cincinnati Flames Summer Classic.  The sun was bringing the heat for our first day, but the wind was still there blowing all of our gear around.  That didn’t stop us though, as we still accomplished what we went there to do…have a blast with all the kids!

We handed out so many Topps and Upper Deck cards, and Airheads candy we thought we might actually run out.  Kids couldn’t get enough of spinning the big wheel for a chance to win some awesome prizes.  And even when the wind starting blowing over our tents, the kids threw in a hand and helped us regroup.  

The sun wasn’t the only thing heating up our area, all the teams came by with so much energy and excitement for what we had to offer; we had to fan them down!  There was some awesome Backyard Baseball Tournaments going on and my boy Mike from the crew even got beat in Airheads Cornhole for the first time this summer!

The second day of the tourney brought some nasty rain all day, but we still found some spots of sunshine to set up and have fun with the kids.  We showed them all the new Louisville Slugger gear, and played some awesome games with the baseball cards we were handing out to them.

Bad weather can’t get our crew down, and the kids of the West Chester tournament have the testimonies to prove it.  We are headed to another tournament in Ohio tomorrow, where we hope to continue the great fun we have had so far.

June 6-7: West Chester, OH - Cincinnati Flames Summer Classic

It seems like a storm cloud follows the East tour crew around. After ...

Updated: Jun 07, 2008 8:40pm PST

May 28: Noblesville, IN - Noblesville Youth Baseball Action : Who said you can’t play baseball in the rain?  Luckily we got everything out and had plenty of time to hang out with the players before the Baseball Youth Road Trip was postponed due to rain.  Kids of the Noblesville little league came out in full force, and took full advantage of all the great Topps and Upper Deck trading cards we were passing out.

We got the kids excited playing card games and pack wars for the chance to win even better cards and prizes that we brought with us.  As teams showed up for the first games of the night they made sure to stop by our tents to check out what was going on.  They all got the chance to spin our big wheel, full of chances to win great stuff from Baseball Youth, Disney, and much more.

Right before the first games started at the Field of Dreams ballpark, the rain hit and washed up our chance to stay out.  We had to pack up our gear but that didn’t stop our crew from sticking around and watching some exciting wet baseball games.  

We even got the chance to hang out and play a little whiffle ball homerun derby with some of the local kids.  Even rain can’t keep the East Coast crew from having some fun.  The kids loved hanging out and playing in the rain, it just goes to show that any weather is baseball weather.  Even with Mother Nature against us, we found a way to have a great time in Noblesville, for the second day in a row!

May 28: Noblesville, IN - Noblesville Youth Baseball Action

Who said you can’t play baseball in the rain? Luckily we got everyt ...

Updated: May 27, 2008 9:19pm PST

May 26: Indianapolis, IN - Game Day USA All-American Slugfest : People call Chicago the windy city, but they apparently haven’t been to Indianapolis, IN.  We got set up at the Game Day USA All-American Slugfest in the early morning, and it wasn’t long after that we were fighting off huge gusts of wind trying to keep our tents grounded.

No matter how strong the wind got, it didn’t stop the players from the championship day from cruising over to our area to check out the day’s events.  The kids couldn’t get enough of trying out the Louisville Slugger bats in the TPX blow up batting cage.  Once they get tired of crushing the ball into the net, they still found time to collect baseball cards and compete in some Backyard Baseball video game tournaments.
Before you knew it the crew was challenging players to a Corn Hole competition on the Airhead boards, we even got to play catch with some of the teams as the checked out the new Louisville Slugger gloves we had on display.

The day wrapped up with 4 championship teams from the different age groups, and a lot of baseball fans with some cool prizes from the Baseball Youth Road Trip tents.  What a great baseball atmosphere Indiana had and some awesome competition.  Cities like Indianapolis and tournaments like the All-American Slugfest truly make baseball America’s favorite pastime!

May 26: Indianapolis, IN - Game Day USA All-American Slugfest

People call Chicago the windy city, but they apparently haven’t been ...

Updated: May 26, 2008 1:29pm PST

May 25: Cincinnati, OH - Maupin Memorial Tournament : As the 2008 Baseball Youth Road Trip officially got underway, our east coast crew hit the road, leaving our home in Kentucky for Cincinnati, Ohio.  We got to the park right as the sun came up, with the morning dew fresh on the ground, and started setting up all the cool and fun events we have in store for the kids this year.  

We found a great place to call home for the day’s events at the Matt Maupin Memorial Tournament.  Before we could even finish setting up kids were all over our tents wanting in on all the action Baseball Youth has to offer.  The weather was perfect with hardly a cloud in the sky; you couldn’t ask for a more beautiful day and start to this year’s tour!
As the day progressed kids jumped from booth to booth filling up on airheads, and baseball cards.  During the entire day you couldn’t keep the kids eyes off the new 2009 Louisville Slugger equipment as they tried out the new gloves and used some of the new bats in their games.  There wasn’t a frown among the crowd as all the kids enjoyed all Baseball Youth had to offer, some fans even helped out our crew handing out free Airheads candy and running games with everyone.

What a great start to the tour, and great baseball atmosphere in Cincinnati.  We had a lot of fun with the kids at the tournament and look forward to our next stop on the Baseball Youth Road Trip 2K8.

May 25: Cincinnati, OH - Maupin Memorial Tournament

As the 2008 Baseball Youth Road Trip officially got underway, our east ...

Updated: May 26, 2008 1:15pm PST

Video :

Video

Updated: Jun 30, 2008 12:56pm PST

August 10: Big League Dreams August Heat Classic - Chino Hills, CA : It's the grand finale for the Baseball Youth Road Trip West tour, and there's no better place to have the last setup than the Big League Dreams complex in Chino Hills. This place is a quite a dream park for young kids as they get to play at Yankee Stadium, Fenway Park and even Wrigley Field, complete with the ivy wall!

Everybody was excited to see us pull into the park even though it was a little after 7 in the morning. The kids were wide awake, and so were we once we got everything ready to go. Baseball cards, wristbands and candy went like hotcakes, and everybody was getting loaded up with plenty of prizes. It was hard for the players to concentrate on warming up with all the yelling and screaming that was going on at the BY Road Trip.

It was quite a journey to the West Coast, and hopefully everyone had a blast with us. We met so many new faces, and it was an awesome time spreading the word about Baseball Youth, The Nation's Baseball Magazine for Kids and our other sponsors. See you next year!

August 10: Big League Dreams August Heat Classic - Chino Hills, CA

It's the grand finale for the Baseball Youth Road Trip West tour, and ...

Updated: Aug 13, 2008 9:04am PST

August 9: TPR Top 10 Championships - Sunnyvale, CA : Sunnyvale, California was our next stop on the Baseball Youth Road Trip 2008, and the sun was out for the entire day!  The teams got there in the early morning preparing for their games, and had the nice surprise of seeing the Road Trip tents right as they walked in the front gates.

Lets not forget that you can't play a baseball game without loading up on awesome prizes first!  The kids got their hands on a boat load of baseball cards from Topps and Upper Deck, not to mention the great prizes from The Disney Channel, and Airheads as well.  Some heated games were happening over in the Backyard Baseball video game tent, while the others were checking out the new gear from Louisville Slugger and trying out the bats on our swing-away!

What a great time we had with all the kids of the TPR Top 10 Championships, the West Coast Crew was sad to leave it all behind.  Back to Chino Hills for our last stop of the summer, where you know we will go out with a BANG!

August 9: TPR Top 10 Championships - Sunnyvale, CA

Sunnyvale, California was our next stop on the Baseball Youth Road Tri ...

Updated: Aug 10, 2008 7:36am PST

August 8: Backyard Brawl - Martinez, CA : Here we are in Martinez, California right outside of San Jose for more Road Trip action!  The kids here showed awesome sportsmanship, and knew how to have a good time, as they took advantage of all we brought for them on their tournament day.  There were teams from all over California here, some we had already seen, but that didn't stop them from coming back by for more fun at the Road Trip tents.

The teams loaded up on Disney Channel wristbands and wore them proudly in their games as the faced some tough competition from each other.  They got the chance to use all of the great new bats from Louisville Slugger in their games as well, and not one person came back disappointed in the performance of the bat of their choosing.  

Great baseball atmosphere in this tournament, and the West Coast Crew knows that our next stop will be just as great!  Check back soon for our next update and photos.

August 8: Backyard Brawl - Martinez, CA

Here we are in Martinez, California right outside of San Jose for more ...

Updated: Aug 10, 2008 7:33am PST

August 6: Rainbow Fields Summer League - Modesto, CA : Summer League baseball time here at the Rainbow fields in Modesto, California.  The kids here had never seen anything like what the Baseball Youth Road Trip had in store for them.  The players and kids were overwhelmed with excitement when they saw us pull out the big spinning prize wheels and all the baseball cards, and other great prizes.

Nerves were running wild as the kids tried to win the Jackpot prize on our big wheel, which included a ton of awesome baseball cards and gifts from Disney Channel and Airheads.  The swing-away was also out and the players loved getting the chance to practice on the amazing piece of equipment before their big games!

Back on the Road now to bring the all the fun the Baseball Youth Road Trip has to a tournament near you!

August 6: Rainbow Fields Summer League - Modesto, CA

Summer League baseball time here at the Rainbow fields in Modesto, Cal ...

Updated: Aug 08, 2008 12:08am PST

August 5: End of Summer Ball '08 - San Jose, CA : Beautiful San Jose, California was our next stop where we made it o the End of Summer Baseball 08 Tourney!  The kids of this tournament had already heard of us and went crazy when they saw the Baseball Youth trailer pull into their park!

They couldn’t wait to get their hands on the cool prizes that we had to offer and the West Coast Crew was glad to deliver the goods!  The kids were awesome and a lot of fun to hang out with.  The Baseball Youth Road Trip can’t wait to make it back to these fields next summer!

August 5: End of Summer Ball '08 - San Jose, CA

Beautiful San Jose, California was our next stop where we made it o th ...

Updated: Aug 06, 2008 9:52am PST

August 4: Pony 13U World Championship and 6U Championship - Chino Hills, CA : Our last tournament in the Los Angeles area was the 13 and under Pony World Championship and the 6U Coach Pitch Championship in Chino Hills.  There were some great games here on championship day and we were right in the middle of all the action.

After the teams played their games and got their trophies, they headed right on over to the Baseball Youth Road Trip area for what else, awesome prizes from all of our sponsors.  Once again Airheads candy, Disney Channel gifts, baseball cards from Topps and Upper Deck, and so much more were everywhere as the kids loaded up on the fun.

We are sad to leave such a baseball rich environment that is Los Angeles, but we know that there is more fun to come as the West Coast Crew moves north to San Jose!

August 4: Pony 13U World Championship and 6U Championship - Chino Hills, CA

Our last tournament in the Los Angeles area was the 13 and under Pony ...

Updated: Aug 06, 2008 9:49am PST

August 3: USSSA Season Opener 2 - Mira Loma, CA : Another USSSA Season Opener this time in Mira Loma at the Big League Dreams Sports Complex. The teams here came to play and left their heart and souls on the field in their quest for the championship!

Not only did they play their baseball games hard, they played the games we brought for them hard as well. They all left with a ton of gifts and had a blast hanging out and having fun with the West Coast Crew.

We have one more stop in Southern California before we head north to San Jose.  Visit the site again for more updates and photos from our next stops!

August 3: USSSA Season Opener 2 - Mira Loma, CA

Another USSSA Season Opener this time in Mira Loma at the Big League D ...

Updated: Aug 03, 2008 5:19pm PST

August 2: USSSA Season Opener 1 - Chino Hills, CA : Back in Chino Hills and the results were the same, awesome baseball a great time and meeting some future baseball all-stars.   Getting a ton of gifts weren’t enough for this crew, they wanted to hang out and help out.  Some of the kids got behind the booth and joined us in watching smiling faces walk away with awesome prizes.  

The USSSA Season Opener we brought some great teams who all played hard at the one goal they all came for, the championship!  Back on the road to another area outside Los Angeles, be sure to come back for more updates!

August 2: USSSA Season Opener 1 - Chino Hills, CA

Back in Chino Hills and the results were the same, awesome baseball a ...

Updated: Aug 02, 2008 11:08pm PST

August 1: Garden Grove Post All-Star Classic - Garden Grove, CA : This tournament was just one big funfest.  The Garden Grove Post All-Star Classic was an awesome tournament, with a lot of competition and great baseball action.  We got set up right in the mix of everything and immediately our fun began.

The West Coast Crew did what we do best, and that’s hand out all kinds of awesome prizes from Airheads, Topps & Upper Deck, The Disney Channel, and Louisville Slugger.  Not to mention the fun the kids had playing the new Backyard Baseball video game, and taking batting practice on the Swing-Away.

We are headed back to Chino Hills for another opening tournament and more Baseball Youth Road Trip action!

August 1: Garden Grove Post All-Star Classic - Garden Grove, CA

This tournament was just one big funfest. The Garden Grove Post All-S ...

Updated: Aug 02, 2008 11:01pm PST

July 31: TNT Shetland World Series - Chino Hills, CA : The TNT Shetland World Series in Chino Hills, California was our next stop on the Baseball Youth Road Trip 2K8.  It was the opening night of the tournament at the beautiful complex with turf fields!  They had baseball games, a Home Run Derby and some of the best concessions stand food we have encountered all summer!

Lucky for us the kids still had plenty of time to hang out in between all of the festivities.  Once again we handed out a ton of prizes and had a lot of fun with the kids of the tournament.  We were lucky enough to run across some times from Mexico, and even all the way from Puerto Rico.  They had seen nothing like what we had to offer and had a great time playing all of our games!

We are coming up towards the end of the summer, but we still have more tournaments and more fun coming to a park near you!  Check back soon for more updates about our wild and crazy times!

July 31: TNT Shetland World Series - Chino Hills, CA

The TNT Shetland World Series in Chino Hills, California was our next ...

Updated: Aug 02, 2008 10:57pm PST

July 28: USTBA West Coast National Championships - Bonita, CA : After a few days away we made it back to San Diego for the tournament play at the West Coast USTBA tournament.  We drove right up to our same spot and all the kids were glad to see the Baseball Youth caravan pull in.  

Once again the kids got to load up on awesome prizes and play all the great games the Road Trip had to offer.

July 28: USTBA West Coast National Championships - Bonita, CA

After a few days away we made it back to San Diego for the tournament ...

Updated: Jul 28, 2008 8:13pm PST

July 26, 29: CCYB World Series - Placentia, CA : The CCYB tournament in Placentia, California is where we brought the fun this time.  Another opening day ceremony and day of game action, and once again everyone had a blast hanging out at the Road Trip booths.  We got there right at the beginning of everyone showing up and had lines waiting as we got everything out of the trailer for the kids to enjoy. 

We handed out a ton of Airheads candy, and awesome baseball cards from Topps and Upper Deck.  We almost ran out of Los Angeles Angels cards because there were so many fans in the area.  We had fun hanging out and playing games with the teams, and they had fun too.  We are headed back to San Diego now for day 2 of the USTBA tournament.

July 26, 29: CCYB World Series - Placentia, CA

The CCYB tournament in Placentia, California is where we brought the f ...

Updated: Jul 28, 2008 8:24pm PST

July 25: USTBA West Coast National Championships - Bonita, CA : San Diego was our next stop for the West Coast USTBA tournament.  We got set up right in the middle of the action for the opening ceremony and had a blast meeting all the teams.  We got the swing-a-way set up and all the kids loved trying out the new Louisville Slugger on our new hitting machine.

Doing all that practicing worked out the need for some more fun, where the kids got to enjoy all the great prizes we brought with us.  Disney Channel Frisbees were flying around everywhere and you could tell that everyone was having a great time.

We’ll be back at this tournament soon, but first another stop in Anaheim for another opening day ceremony!

July 25: USTBA West Coast National Championships - Bonita, CA

San Diego was our next stop for the West Coast USTBA tournament. We g ...

Updated: Jul 28, 2008 8:05pm PST

July 21-22: USSSA World Series (Opening Ceremonies and Tourney Play) - Chino Hills, CA : Here we are in beautiful California right outside Los Angeles in Chino Hills at the Big League Dream Ballpark for the USSA World Series opening ceremonies.  There were countless numbers of people at the ceremony and every single person got the chance to load up on great prizes from all of the Baseball Youth Road Trip Sponsors.

This park was unbelievable and we got set up right in the middle of everything.  Before we knew it we were swarmed by tons of people at every single booth!  These teams and kids had a blast loading up on Disney Channel gear, Airheads, baseball cards, and playing the new Backyard Baseball.  And we had so many kids asking about the new Louisville Slugger gear that we could barely keep up.  It was an awesome opening ceremony and we couldn’t wait to get back for the opening day of this glorious tournament.  

Back for the first day of tournament play at the USSA World Series in the Big League Dreams Ballpark in Chino Hills, California.  You wouldn’t believe the awesome fields these kids got to play on.  Check out the pictures and you can see teams playing on replicas of Wrigley, Fenway, Yankee, and Tiger Stadium just to name a few!

It was a great scene watching the teams play on these fields, and getting to chance to hang out with them again and hand our more of the great gifts we brought with us.  Great baseball atmosphere and an amazing time we had with everyone at the Big League Dreams Ballpark.  The west Coast crew will be back in a few this time in San Diego for more baseball action, be sure to check in soon!

July 21-22: USSSA World Series (Opening Ceremonies and Tourney Play) - Chino Hills, CA

Here we are in beautiful California right outside Los Angeles in Chino ...

Updated: Jul 23, 2008 8:08am PST

July 18: Pee Wee Reese South Plains Regional Tourney - Moriarty, NM : Here with the West Coast crew, we get the chance to go to a lot of big cities we have never been to before.  However every now and then we find some hidden gems in these small towns that we travel to.

The story was no different for Moriarty, New Mexico where we got to meet some awesome kids who represent the sport of baseball at the highest level.  We had a blast at the Pee Wee Reese South Plains Regional, and so did all the kids who got to fill up with the outstanding prizes we brought with us.

One thing we learned about New Mexico is that the weather is unpredictable.  Everything seemed calm until out of nowhere huge gusts of wind came, blowing our tents out of the ground and onto the baseball field mid-game!  Luckily the players from the Santa Fe Extreme were there, and were nice enough to help us gather all of our gear.   The kids of the Pee Wee Reese tournament were a class act and we are blessed to have gotten the chance to meet them.

The West Coast Crew now has a 900-mile road trip to California and to the land where dreams come true, Los Angeles.  Check back soon for more updates as the Baseball Youth Road Trip makes It to it’s second ocean of the summer!

July 18: Pee Wee Reese South Plains Regional Tourney - Moriarty, NM

Here with the West Coast crew, we get the chance to go to a lot of big ...

Updated: Jul 21, 2008 11:57am PST

July 16: Super Series Western Championships - Colorado Springs, CO : Super Series time in Colorado Springs at Woodland Park!  We made it to the tournament just in time, and had kids running by our trailer waiting for us to unload the fun.  The lines were long but everyone left with more great gifts from our sponsors. 

Kids were throwing around Disney Channel Frisbee’s, trading baseball cards between each other, munching on some Airheads candy, and getting a feel for all the new Louisville Slugger gear.  There was also some hefty competition at the Backyard Baseball tent, where the kids challenged each other to this year’s hottest kid’s baseball video game.

What a great end to an exciting adventure in the state of Colorado.  The West Coast crew is packing up for now and heading to New Mexico, where we will bring the fun to a new bunch of future baseball stars!

July 16: Super Series Western Championships - Colorado Springs, CO

Super Series time in Colorado Springs at Woodland Park! We made it to ...

Updated: Jul 17, 2008 10:47am PST

July 15: AAYBA Open World Series Session 3 (10U, 14U) - Denver, CO : Here at our second day of the AAYB World Series and more kids of different ages came by Pioneer Park to check out what we had going on.  Once again the kids had a blast hanging out and playing games with the West Coast Crew.  We made sure not one kid left without a smile on their face and a hand full of great prizes from all of our sponsors.

The AAYBA World Series sure proved to be a blast each and every time we stopped by.  The Baseball Youth Road Trip is happy to have gotten the chance to hang out with such awesome kids who love baseball!  We can’t wait to get back next year for the 2009 Road Trip.

On to Colorado Springs now for our last stop in Colorado, where we are sure to have more great times!

July 15: AAYBA Open World Series Session 3 (10U, 14U) - Denver, CO

Here at our second day of the AAYB World Series and more kids of diffe ...

Updated: Jul 17, 2008 7:18am PST

July 14: AAYBA Open World Series Session 2 (11U) - Arvada, CO : Back to the AAYBA World Series in Denver, but this time new teams and new age groups.  We got set up at the Youth Memorial Ballpark and the teams were not far behind to hang out at our area.  Before too long everyone at the tournament had stopped by to check out what we had going on.

The kids had a blast grabbing free gear from the Disney Channel Games.  The teams loved the wrist bands and wore them while they played.  Everyone got the chance to load up on baseball cards from Topps and Upper Deck, candy from Airheads, and they even played the new 2009 Backyard Baseball game.  Who can forget the Louisville Slugger tent where the kids looked at all the new equipment.

Tomorrow we hit the second age group of this tournament and are sure to have some more good times!

July 14: AAYBA Open World Series Session 2 (11U) - Arvada, CO

Back to the AAYBA World Series in Denver, but this time new teams and ...

Updated: Jul 17, 2008 7:11am PST

July 12: Super Series Western Championships Opening Ceremonies - Woodland Park, CO : We made it to the opening ceremonies for the Super Series Western Championships in Woodland Park, Colorado for our next stop.  This ballpark was literally inside the Rocky Mountains with a 360 degree view of beautiful scenery.

These kids came to play and were excited to see the Road Trip trailer pull up.  They knew the deal and had already heard of our reputation of handing out awesome gifts from The Disney Channel, Airheads, Topps and Upper Deck.  Not to mention getting to play Backyard Baseball and check out all the new gear from Louisville Slugger.

Back to Denver now for part two and different age groups in the AAYBA World Series.  Check back soon for all the photos from our next stop!

July 12: Super Series Western Championships Opening Ceremonies - Woodland Park, CO

We made it to the opening ceremonies for the Super Series Western Cham ...

Updated: Jul 12, 2008 6:06pm PST

July 11: AAYBA Open World Series 2 - Denver, CO : Back with the AAYBA World Series this time in Arvada, Colorado just down the road from Denver.  We might have been at a different park but the atmosphere was the same.  Tons of kids of loved baseball and who loved all the prizes we were handing out.

The players and kids loaded up on Airheads candy and baseball cards from Topps and Upper Deck.  Then they stopped by our Disney Channel Games tent and got some wristbands and eye-black supporting their favorite Disney Team.

We’ll be back for another AAYBA World Series of different age groups shortly, but not before we hit another city for more Baseball Youth Road Trip fun!

July 11: AAYBA Open World Series 2 - Denver, CO

Back with the AAYBA World Series this time in Arvada, Colorado just do ...

Updated: Jul 12, 2008 6:02pm PST

July 7-9: AAYBA Open World Series - Arvada, CO : We got to the Mile High City for the Colorado State Championships and had a blast with all the teams in this year’s tournament. We set up right by the gates and had the chance to hang out with a lot of great kids as the tournament got underway.

We had a ton of kids waiting for us before we were even finished setting up. They had already heard of our reputation of handing out awesome prizes from The Disney Channel, Topps and Upper Deck, Airheads and Louisville Slugger, and couldn’t wait to get their hands on their own.

There was some stiff competition as the kids set up their own Backyard Baseball 2008 tournament to find who the best player of the group was. Meanwhile at our other booths the West Coast crew was kept busy handing out all the great prizes we had in store for the Colorado kids.

We head down the road for the next stop of the Colorado State Championships. Our next recap and more photos will be up shortly as the 2008 Road Trip rolls on!

July 7-9: AAYBA Open World Series - Arvada, CO

We got to the Mile High City for the Colorado State Championships and ...

Updated: Jul 10, 2008 4:15am PST

July 5-6: Colorado State Championships - Breckenridge, CO : Baseball in the Rocky Mountains, now what could be better than that?  We made it to the Colorado State Championships in Breckenridge and got to hang out with some awesome kids at Kingdom Park.  The fireworks didn’t stop on the 4th as the tournament got underway the next day with some great baseball action.

On our first day we had kids lining up to get their hands on the great prizes we had from The Disney Channel, and Airheads.  Then they would cruise on over to the Topps and Upper Deck tent and load up on a ton of free baseball cards.  Some of the players tried out the 2009 Louisville Slugger bats, and not one of them came back unhappy with the outcome of their time at the plate.

The West Coast Crew is having a blast in the mountains, and the fun is sure to continue as we head to Denver for the AAYBA World Series.  Check back soon for more highlights and photos from our next stops!

July 5-6: Colorado State Championships - Breckenridge, CO

Baseball in the Rocky Mountains, now what could be better than that? ...

Updated: Jul 06, 2008 8:17pm PST

June 28: South Jeffco Liberty Blast 2 - Littleton, CO : We changed complexes for our second day at the South Jeffco Liberty Blast, and this time around was even better than the first. The Road Trip FanFest was literally crowded the entire day from the time the games started at 8 a.m. till the final games ended around 5:30 p.m. 

This was the first time we set up the Disney Channel Games tent with the Plinko game. It was an instant hit as kids could win different colored wristbands and eye black. The grand prize were white frisbees, and kids lined up to win everything they could. There were kids with every color eye black on their faces and all four wristbands on their arms. It was amazing!

The AirHeads booth was a big hit too as we had two girls beg to help us work. We set them up with AirHeads shirts, and they took over like they had been with us all summer. 

We're headed higher up in the mountains to Breckenridge where it's almost 10,000 feet above sea level. See you there as we celebrate our nation's independence!

June 28: South Jeffco Liberty Blast 2 - Littleton, CO

We changed complexes for our second day at the South Jeffco Liberty Bl ...

Updated: Jul 01, 2008 9:13pm PST

June 27: South Jeffco Liberty Blast 1 - Englewood, CO : The Baseball Youth Road Trip had never been to Colorado until now, and it's shaping up to be an incredible next two weeks. There's some great baseball in the Rockies, and the players and parents have been excited to learn about Baseball Youth.

We showed up to the Columbine Sports Park in the afternoon to set up for the evening games, and by the time we were ready there were tons of people crowded around us. Everybody loved the baseball cards, prizes, Louisville Slugger bats, video games and candy. The kids in the Denver area are definitely taken care of because the fields were awesome. 

It was a perfect setting for baseball as the evening was cool and there was no humidity. With the mountains looming in the background, the view was spectacular.

June 27: South Jeffco Liberty Blast 1 - Englewood, CO

The Baseball Youth Road Trip had never been to Colorado until now, and ...

Updated: Jun 30, 2008 5:16pm PST

June 21-22: Omaha Slumpbuster (Session 3) - Omaha, NE : Back for our third Omaha Slumpbuster session, this was one we certainly will never forget. The festival was at the La Vista Sports Complex, and as everything got underway, massive dark clouds started to form above us. (Go figure.)

Just a few minutes into the festival the rain started, and we had to move to plan B. We took down the tents, fearing they would get blown over by the storm, and we actually ran the tour in the open. We got rained on that's for sure, but there was no way we were going to close shop when almost 1,000 people were there. 

We had a blast in the rain, and so did everyone else. The prize wheels never stopped, and no one left our FanFest empty-handed. The following day was absolutely beautiful, and it was a great chance to dry some of our stuff out. This was the final Slumpbuster day, and we made it a good one as we gave out tons of baseball cards and other prizes to the kids as they finished up their games.

After more than a week in Omaha, it's time to head to the mountains. We're off to Denver! See you there!

June 21-22: Omaha Slumpbuster (Session 3) - Omaha, NE

Back for our third Omaha Slumpbuster session, this was one we certainl ...

Updated: Jun 23, 2008 4:46am PST

June 19-20: Road to Rosenblatt - Council Bluffs, IA : The Council Bluffs Recreation Complex has been the official park for the Baseball Youth Road Trip during our stay in the Midwest. This time we visited the Road to Rosenblatt tournament, featuring close to 60 teams from around the area.

We set up early in the morning, and by the time we had everything ready there were kids lining up to see what was happening. The prize wheels were packed the entire time we were there, and the Louisville Slugger batting cage had a steady flow of players trying out the newest bats. It was awesome to hear the kids' gasps when they saw the bats. Some players even dropped their bags and took off running for the Slugger tent.

For the Road Trip, the highlight of the tournament had to be when a TV crew from the NBC affiliate in Omaha took footage of the action. We even made the 6 o'clock news in Omaha with a spinning prize wheel and a pan across the FanFest area. 

We had a great time in Council Bluffs! Thanks for such a great time!

June 19-20: Road to Rosenblatt - Council Bluffs, IA

The Council Bluffs Recreation Complex has been the official park for t ...

Updated: Jun 21, 2008 11:37am PST

June 16-17: Omaha Slumpbuster (Session 2) - Omaha, NE : Session 2 of the Slumpbuster saw the Road Trip back in Council Bluffs, but this time with the 13 and 14 year old teams in attendance. 

No matter the age, kids still love Airheads, but the focus in the inflatable batting cage changed considerably. With many of the fourteen year-olds starting to think about high school ball next fall, the -3oz Triton model was in high demand, as well as the H2 Hybrid from Louisville Slugger. 

Many of the ball players raved about the solid feel of the H2, but did not report any of the 'give' that they had experienced with other composite bats when swinging at high speeds. 

The night also featured great live music from The Special Effects, and a nice visit from our buddy Scott St. George at Disney. Another busy weekend lies ahead in Omaha, but we'll be out at Rosenblatt as often as we can. If you don't know who to root for, get behind Stanford. 

What do Stanford and Baseball Youth have in common? We're both a part of team Louisville Slugger.

Go Cardinal!

June 16-17: Omaha Slumpbuster (Session 2) - Omaha, NE

Session 2 of the Slumpbuster saw the Road Trip back in Council Bluffs, ...

Updated: Jun 18, 2008 9:39am PST

June 13-14: Road To Omaha - Council Bluffs, IA : After a late night in La Vista at Slumpbuster, the Road Trip headed back across the Missouri River to Council Bluffs. Safely back in Iowa, we set up camp at the Council Bluffs Recreational Complex for the next few days at the Road to Omaha Tournament. 

With the help of Cory Hahn from Louisville Slugger we rented out a record 77 bats over the two days. The '09 Triton continues to be a favorite, with kids raving at how much 'pop' the new bat possesses. 

Kids left the park on Saturday afternoon with higher batting averages, tons of new cards to add to their collections, and with smiles on their faces. The road trip looked forward to a much needed Sunday off, and our first visit to Rosnebaltt Stadium for the College World Series.

June 13-14: Road To Omaha - Council Bluffs, IA

After a late night in La Vista at Slumpbuster, the Road Trip headed ba ...

Updated: Jun 18, 2008 9:27am PST

June 12: Omaha Slumpbuster (Session 1) - Omaha, NE : By no means was the Baseball Youth Road Trip in any sort of slump, but that didn't stop us from crashing the party at Session 1 of the Slumpbuster Tournament just outside of Omaha. 

The La Vista Sports Complex proved to more than ready for us as we showed up for the annual festival preceding the beginning of game play. In between turns in the moon jump, and standing in line for Hawaiian Ice, the kids eagerly awaited their chance to find their favorite players on Upper Deck and Topps cards. 

The night ended with a bang, as a bundle of old bats were set a fire a midst an impressive display of fireworks. Whether or not any slumps were busted still remained to be seen, but it's safe to say, Omaha is ready for a good two weeks of baseball.

June 12: Omaha Slumpbuster (Session 1) - Omaha, NE

By no means was the Baseball Youth Road Trip in any sort of slump, but ...

Updated: Jun 13, 2008 4:41am PST

June 10: USSSA League Play - Kansas City, MO : After spending a great weekend at the Tiffany Springs Sports Complex, the road trip rolled back into KC for some USSSA Tuesday night league play. The local teams delighted in seeing the trailer, and after a little coaxing, came out in full force. 

Much calmer conditions graced the park this time around, much to the relief of the road trip. Airheads continued to draw kids to the booths in flocks, and the ever elusive Airheads T-shirts are a favorite prize for kids and adults alike. 

We packed up the trailer after three very successful days, bid farewell to our new buddy Frank, and continued on the road to Rosenblatt. 

World Series or Bust! Check back soon for updates from Omaha.

June 10: USSSA League Play - Kansas City, MO

After spending a great weekend at the Tiffany Springs Sports Complex, ...

Updated: Jun 18, 2008 9:34am PST

June 7-8: JustBats.com June Jam - Kansas City, MO : They call Chicago the Windy City, but after spending two days in Kansas City they might want to reconsider who gets that title. The Baseball Youth Road Trip traveled to the Tiffany Springs Sports Complex for the JustBats.com June Jam, and we were not only greeted by tons of kids but also 35-40 mph winds.

It was pretty hard to get our tents and everything else set up because of the wind, but the show must go on, right? There was no way we were going to disappoint the 60+ teams that participated in the tournament. We had to get a little creative with the setup, but the main thing was that everyone had fun. There were parts of the day where the Baseball Youth area was so crowded that hardly anyone could get by. 

Many of the players hadn't seen the new Louisville Slugger bat line, and they were very excited to demo the bats. Talking about the new Triton bat, a few kids told us they like to call it the "Catalyst on steroids" referring to Slugger's top bat model last year. The Triton was the most popular bat in Kansas City.

After an incredibly exciting tournament in Kansas City it's time to head to Omaha, Nebraska for several huge tournaments and the always popular NCAA College World Series. The top college baseball teams will be there competing for the 2008 National Championship, and Baseball Youth will be there checking out all the action. Stay tuned!

June 7-8: JustBats.com June Jam - Kansas City, MO

They call Chicago the Windy City, but after spending two days in Kansa ...

Updated: Jun 09, 2008 10:08am PST

June 5-6: TBN World Qualifier - Columbia, MO : For the final night in Columbia, we set up for the TBN World Qualifier at the Twin Oaks Sports Complex. It was the first night of action in the USSSA tournament, and what better way is there to kick off a tournament than having the Baseball Youth Road Trip in attendance. New teams showed up ready for baseball not expecting just how much fun they were about to have.

One thing was for sure we gave out lots of baseball cards, candy, shirts, bags and other prizes. We got a big Baseball Card Challenge game going midway through the night, and the players and kids loved playing. Some kids received some pretty cool cards for getting three points and winning a round of the Baseball Card Challenge. 

While it was sad to finally leave Columbia, we were excited to be heading further west to Kansas City for even more awesome tournament action and fun. See you in KC!

June 5-6: TBN World Qualifier - Columbia, MO

For the final night in Columbia, we set up for the TBN World Qualifier ...

Updated: Jun 06, 2008 5:15pm PST

June 4: BC Baseball League Play - Columbia, MO : It was another night of BC Baseball League play, but this time we headed back to Columbia and the Twin Oaks Sports Complex. The kids were excited to see our set up as they pulled in to the park, and for most of the kids we were their first stop before hitting the batting cages. 

The prize wheels were packed all night long, and the players loved checking out the Louisville Slugger equipment and bats. By the time the games were finishing up and we were taking down the Baseball Youth village every kid in the park had at least one prize. No one left disappointed that night.

Even though we had to pack up for the night the good news was we were coming back for one more night to finish our stay in Columbia.

June 4: BC Baseball League Play - Columbia, MO

It was another night of BC Baseball League play, but this time we head ...

Updated: Jun 06, 2008 5:07pm PST

June 3: Jefferson City Little League Play - Jefferson City, MO : Taking a break from tournament action, the West tour hit the road to Jefferson City, Missouri for some BC Baseball League play. We had plenty of room to set up at the Field of Legends complex, and the kids couldn't wait to see what was going on at our Baseball Youth village.

Not only did the players enjoy playing the games and winning free prizes, but their brothers and sisters had a great time as well. We even had a few parents stop by to spin the prize wheels because no one is too old to have some fun. 

Probably the biggest hit of the night were the AirHeads shirts. Several kids kept spinning the wheel just so they could try to win the shirt. When someone would come close the whole crowd would moan, and when someone landed on the shirt everybody would yell. It was hilarious to hear the reactions!

We definitely had a great time with everyone in Jefferson City, and it was a nice change of pace to do some night games. Now we're off to Columbia for another night of BC Baseball League play!

June 3: Jefferson City Little League Play - Jefferson City, MO

Taking a break from tournament action, the West tour hit the road to J ...

Updated: Jun 04, 2008 8:36am PST

May 31-June 1: June Classic Baseball Tourney - St. Louis, MO : It was a beautiful Saturday afternoon at the June Classic Baseball Tournament as the sun was out and the kids were ready to play baseball. The action was supposed to start in the morning, but a massive storm the night before dumped huge amounts of rain on the 12 fields. The grounds crew did an amazing job to get the fields ready by noon, and by that time the Road Trip crew was more than ready to have some fun.

We set up the Road Trip at the front of the park where several batting cages had been before a recent flood destroyed them. It was perfect for us as we had our own little "Baseball Youth Village" as we called it. Kids collected plenty of baseball cards, posters, candy backpacks, shirts and more as we were there through the early evening hours. The kids at this tournament were awesome and lots of fun.

For the first time this Road Trip we broke out the Baseball Card Challenge, a game we created three years ago during the first Baseball Youth Road Trip. No one had ever played, but after one game everyone wanted to play! The Baseball Card Challenge became the hit of the tournament, mainly because we gave the winners special insert cards of baseball greats. The reactions were priceless when we asked if the kids had ever heard of guys like Ken Griffey, Jr. or Albert Pujols. 

Unfortunately, another storm came that Saturday night, and we had to move quick to get our Road Trip packed into our trailer. Just as we got the last bit put away it started to rain. I know the players were sad to see us go, but there's no doubt we had an amazing day.

Now we're heading back to the Columbia area after a quick stop in Jefferson City. See you soon!

May 31-June 1: June Classic Baseball Tourney - St. Louis, MO

It was a beautiful Saturday afternoon at the June Classic Baseball Tou ...

Updated: May 31, 2008 9:28pm PST

May 29-30: School's Out in Columbia - Columbia, MO : After spending a couple days driving from Orlando to St. Louis, it was so nice to set up the Baseball Youth Road Trip and have fun with the kids from Missouri. Driving the 1,000+ miles to get there was well worth it as we put on quite a show at the Twin Oaks Sports Complex in Columbia.

We were there for the first night of play in the School's Out in Columbia tournament. At first the kids arriving for their games weren't very sure about what was going on with all the tents, prize wheels, bats and the huge inflatable batting cage. However, once a couple kids came over and heard the words "free games and prizes" we had swarming mobs sprinting over to us. Nothing like a little running and some free baseball cards to get warmed up for a baseball game.

The sponsor booths were always packed as tournament play went on past 8 p.m. We hope the kids enjoyed all their awesome prizes, but the good news is we'll be back in Columbia for even more fun in a couple days. Till then we have a tournament in St. Louis to rock!

May 29-30: School's Out in Columbia - Columbia, MO

After spending a couple days driving from Orlando to St. Louis, it was ...

Updated: May 31, 2008 7:55am PST

May 23-26: Disney's Sun & Surf Baseball Bash - Orlando, FL : As baseball started for the summer at Disney's Wide World of Sports complex so too did the Baseball Youth Road Trip's West edition. The 36 teams there for Disney's Sun and Surf Baseball Bash were treated to games, prizes, TONS of free baseball cards, brand new Louisville Slugger bats and more. Fun and excitement filled the Wide World of Sports baseball fields.

After a couple days we had kids waiting for us as we arrived early in the morning. These kids were looking for work, and it was fun to watch them interact with the other kids. Our young workers did a great job running the games and handing out prizes. They even gave us ideas to make the experience even better!

The Slugger bats started to disappear as soon as we brought them out. We had amazing responses from the kids and parents that used them. There were several home runs hit and a couple walk-off hits as well. Not a bad way to start the Road Trip.

We're off to Columbia, Missouri for the School's Out at the Lake tournament. Check back for photos and a recap soon!

May 23-26: Disney's Sun & Surf Baseball Bash - Orlando, FL

As baseball started for the summer at Disney's Wide World of Sports co ...

Updated: May 25, 2008 7:18pm PST

June 8-10 - Euless, TX - USSSA "AA" World Series : The 2007 Baseball Youth Road Trip is officially under way! To kick off the summer we hit the road to Texas for the first time ever, and boy was it ever worth it. We went to The Parks at Texas Star where the USSSA "AA" World Series was being played. This year's tour is so much bigger and better than last year's, and kids have so much cool stuff to keep them busy. 

There was a great place to set up right at the entrance of the ballpark that way no one could miss us when they walked in. It's hard to say one part of the Baseball Youth zone was more popular than the other because the kids loved everything they saw. It was hard to limit kids on the amount of AirHeads they could have because a lot of them wanted seconds and thirds. It was great to see the Baseball Card Challenge back for another year along with all the new additions. Finding an unhappy kid at any of our future stops could be tough, because the Baseball Youth Road Trip has to be one of the coolest and most fun things on wheels.

One  big hit with the boys and girls was the Mojo Pitching Cage. A life size batter and catcher were in the cage and the kids had three chances to throw a strike at the catcher's mitt to earn some free baseball cards. Everyone got a kick out of testing their arm, even though our batter Buster took some hits every now and then.

We're glad we finally made it to Texas, and we could tell the kids were glad too. It was a great first adventure of many we'll have along our 65-stop tour this summer.

June 8-10 - Euless, TX - USSSA "AA" World Series

The 2007 Baseball Youth Road Trip is officially under way! To kick off ...

Updated: Jun 10, 2007 9:32am PST

June 10 - Arlington, TX - MLB Game: Milwaukee Brewers at Texas Rangers : Since we were only 20 miles from the Rangers Ballpark in Arlington, it would have been silly not to check it out. It was an interleague showdown between the Brewers and the Rangers, and we got to talk with some really great major league players. Rangers shortstop Michael Young and reliever Eric Gagne talked with us as well as the Brewers hard-hitting Prince Fielder and Geoff Jenkins. They all had interesting things to say about playing baseball in their youth days, and you could be reading about it soon in an upcoming issue.

As far as the game was concerned, there sure was some heart-pounding action out on the field. The Rangers took the lead early on, but the Brewers pounded their way back to take a late lead. Then for the second night in a row, Texas tied the game in the bottom of the ninth. However, unlike the previous night, the Rangers couldn't find the win column as they fell to the Brew Crew 9-6 in 12 innings. 

Prince Fielder hit a huge home run to center field, and Geoff Jenkins won the game for Milwaukee in the 12th inning with a three-run homer. Maybe, Baseball Youth is their good luck charm.

June 10 - Arlington, TX - MLB Game: Milwaukee Brewers at Texas Rangers

Since we were only 20 miles from the Rangers Ballpark in Arlington, it ...

Updated: Jun 11, 2007 3:28pm PST

June 12 - Frisco, TX - MiLB Game: Midland RockHounds vs. Frisco RoughRiders : Professional teams usually have games in the evening or afternoon, but they hardly have them at 11 a.m. Well, the Frisco RoughRiders had an 11 a.m. game against the Midland RockHounds, and they invited a couple thousand kids for youth baseball day. It was so cool to see bus after bus pull up to Dr. Pepper Ballpark and drop off loads of kids. Once they saw the Baseball Youth Road Trip, the kids immediately came over to get some free prizes and to play some games. 

By the time the game started, every kid in the park had something from Baseball Youth and our wonderful sponsors. It was awesome to hear the AirHeads thunder sticks in the outfield, and see kids sporting the Disney Channel eye black. Of course, their pockets were filled with baseball and Backyard Sports trading cards, and some lucky kids got to take home Louisville Slugger posters of guys like Ken Griffey Jr. and Derek Jeter.

You couldn't have asked for a better game to go to because the RoughRiders came all the way back from a nine-run deficit. Frisco slowly made their way back to being one down in the bottom of the ninth, and with two on and one out, the catcher sent a home run over the left field fence. All the Frisco players ran out of the dugout to greet the guy and mob him at home plate. What a cool way to end the day.

June 12 - Frisco, TX - MiLB Game: Midland RockHounds vs. Frisco RoughRiders

Professional teams usually have games in the evening or afternoon, but ...

Updated: Jun 12, 2007 4:20pm PST

June 14-15 - Arlington, TX - Dr. Pepper Ballpark / Texas Rangers Youth Tournament : The Texas Rangers sure do know how to take care of the young kids playing youth baseball. With The Ballpark in Arlington sitting in the background, the Dr. Pepper Youth Ballpark is one of the coolest fields out there. Grounds crew workers keep the grass and dirt in perfect condition, and it has the look and feel of a professional park.

We set up next to the fence on the third base side as people swarmed in for the games that evening. Rain was threatening the whole night, but luck was on our side as not one drop fell on the Baseball Youth Road Trip. We got to meet every team that walked into the ballpark that night, and they loved playing some free games and winning some cool prizes. 

For our first time taking the Baseball Youth Road Trip to Texas, we were definitely not disappointed. We saw three great places, and I'm pretty sure we'll be back for more next year.

June 14-15 - Arlington, TX - Dr. Pepper Ballpark / Texas Rangers Youth Tournament

The Texas Rangers sure do know how to take care of the young kids play ...

Updated: Jun 14, 2007 9:06pm PST

June 16-17 - Gulfport, MS - USSSA Baseball on the Beach IV NIT : Hurricane Katrina tore through the Gulfport area about two years ago leaving the city in bad shape, and the only real scars at the Gulfport Sportsplex are a couple crooked foul poles that had been ripped from the ground.  It was great to go to a first-class facility on our first trip to Mississippi, and with about 50 teams playing in the USSSA Baseball on the Beach IV NIT, we saw TONS of kids.

There were some kids that probably hung out at the Road Trip for about five or six hours, maybe even more. Some would just sit playing game after game of Backyard Baseball, while others would just go from booth to booth getting into a game whenever they could. We probably rented out the most Louisville Slugger bats of any place we've been to so far, and the kids were loving the free trial they received. The parents had mixed emotions though knowing they'd have to spend a few dollars because their kid thought the bat was awesome. Haha.

It was a perfect weekend for baseball as the sun was shining and a stiff breeze from the Gulf of Mexico cooled off the temperatures for the most part. There were several different age groups playing in this tournament, so it was nice to see kids of all different ages. Everyone had fun with us at the Baseball Youth Road Trip, and who could blame them?

June 16-17 - Gulfport, MS - USSSA Baseball on the Beach IV NIT

Hurricane Katrina tore through the Gulfport area about two years ago l ...

Updated: Jun 18, 2007 12:57pm PST

June 18-23 - Panama City Beach, FL - Battle at the Beach Baseball Bash : For our first trip of at least two to Panama City Beach, there's no wonder why we chose to visit Frank Brown Park for a second straight year. The Battle at the Beach Baseball Bash was loaded with teams in five different age categories, and the park was perfect for our massive setup. It was a good thing we had to go home after this visit because we saw so many kids, and they basically cleaned us out.

We set up the Baseball Youth Road Trip right smack in the middle of the nine fields at Frank Brown Park so everyone could have easy access to all the fun and games. The players loved having something to do before and after their games, and even some of the coaches and parents got involved. We had several try to hit the catcher's mitt in the batting cage, but I'm not sure if any of them did. Looks like the coaches need some work.

It was sad to leave Panama City Beach when we did, but it felt good to know we'll be back for the Fourth of July celebration. There will be even more teams to see, and we can expect to have just as much fun as we did the first time. See you soon Panama City Beach!

June 18-23 - Panama City Beach, FL - Battle at the Beach Baseball Bash

For our first trip of at least two to Panama City Beach, there's no wo ...

Updated: Jun 24, 2007 9:19am PST

June 28-30 - Jackson, TN - World Series Warm-Up at Tennessee Healthcare Sportsplex : We remember driving past Jackson, Tenn., last year and seeing the West Tennessee Healthcare Sportsplex on the verge of opening, and now we got to make a stop there for the BY Road Trip. How exciting!! The fields are top notch, and there are acres and acres of space for the awesome baseball field complex.

For this stop we had a massive lawn space to set up everything. We were right in the middle of the action which meant we were always flooded with kids, of course. Probably the best part of the trip was hearing a couple kids say that it was the best tournament they had ever been to. That was all because of the BY Road Trip. 

Jackson was a blast, and we'll definitely be back to check it out next year. Now it's on to Panama City Beach for a second time. Man, it's a hard life spending time on the beach, watching baseball and hanging out with cool kids.

June 28-30 - Jackson, TN - World Series Warm-Up at Tennessee Healthcare Sportsplex

We remember driving past Jackson, Tenn., last year and seeing the West ...

Updated: Jul 02, 2007 5:24am PST

July 1- 4 - Panama City Beach, FL - Grand Slam World Series 1 : It was great to be back in Panama City Beach for another awesome tournament. This time we got to see the Grand Slam World Series with five different age groups playing over the Fourth of July. We can't think of a better way to celebrate the nation's birthday than by playing the country's favorite pastime. Baseball is America.

Unfortunately for us the weather didn't want to cooperate too much. The first day of the tournament was overcast with just a little light rain, but on the second day, the skies opened up on us in the early afternoon. Luckily, we had been set up since 8 a.m. on both days so we still got to play games with the kids, and everyone we saw walked away with their hands and pockets full.

One thing was certain, the rain definitely didn't dampen our fun. We'll actually be back for a third trip to Panama City Beach at the end of the month, and certainly the sun will have to be shining for that one. For now, it's on to Orlando and Disney's Wide World of Sports. Hopefully, we'll get to see Mickey Mouse while we're there.

July 1- 4 - Panama City Beach, FL - Grand Slam World Series 1

It was great to be back in Panama City Beach for another awesome tourn ...

Updated: Jul 03, 2007 8:46pm PST

July 5-9 - Orlando, FL - Disney's Wide World of Sports : They call Disney World the greatest place on Earth, and after a few days at the Wide World of Sports for the Salute to Baseball it's easy to see why. We were there for the largest tournament Disney has to offer with over 50 teams in several different age categories. There were teams from all over the nation as well as teams from Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. It was interesting trying to communicate with them, and it was a help that some of knew a little Spanish.

Inside the Wide World of Sports, we got to set up the Road Trip in the middle of the baseball quadriplex where the 11 and 12-year-olds were playing. It was a perfect place to be as our tents were constantly packed with a steady flow of players, kids, parents, coaches and just about anybody wanting to play some free games and earn some prizes. Out of all the stops so far for the 2007 tour, this was probably the busiest and craziest tournament. It was an absolute blast.

While we worked a few days in Orlando, we had to have a little fun since we were in Disney World. We got to see most of the parks inside like Epcot, Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom and the Disney-MGM Studios. We're staying in Florida and heading up the state to Jacksonville for the first time on the BY Road Trip. We hope to see some of you out there, and lets make it just as good as Disney's Wide World of Sports.

July 5-9 - Orlando, FL - Disney's Wide World of Sports

They call Disney World the greatest place on Earth, and after a few da ...

Updated: Jul 10, 2007 5:58pm PST

July 11-12 - Jacksonville, FL - Babe Ruth 9U Florida State Championships : The one thing we've come to realize while touring Florida is there's a lot of heat, humidity and rain during the summer. We had everything in Jacksonville for the Babe Ruth 9U Florida State Championship, but nothing could dampen our fun and excitement. The kids were out all over the place, and the action on the field was awesome.

Our setup at Burnett Park couldn't have been any better since we were right between the two fields being used for the tournament. Being so close to the fields meant we could interact with the kids and watch baseball all at the same time. You could see the players racing over to us after they got finished with their games. Word spread quickly that the Baseball Youth Road Trip was there, and we became kid magnets.

Even though a little rain came in the early afternoon, it actually felt great because of the heat. There's nothing like a cold summer rain shower to cool you off during a scorcher. The Florida trail continues on as we head to Pace for our next tour stop, and then it's on to the heart of Georgia. See you out there!

July 11-12 - Jacksonville, FL - Babe Ruth 9U Florida State Championships

The one thing we've come to realize while touring Florida is there's a ...

Updated: Jul 12, 2007 3:33pm PST

July 15-18 - Pensacola, FL - USSSA World Series : With tons of teams squaring off against each other in three different age brackets, it was a no-brainer to hit the USSSA World Series in Pace, Fla. The park was one of the biggest we've been to so far, and we had so much space to set up our road trip. We decided to get it going between the 9u and 11u fields, and it was a perfect place for us.

The highlight of our stay in Pace had to be the games of Pack Wars we played throughout the tournament. We played every two hours, and there were huge crowds for each round. It was a good thing we got a megaphone because it was easier to yell out the questions to all the players, and we were able to round up the kids on the other fields not around us.

We're just about halfway through the Baseball Youth Road Trip, and things couldn't be going any better. The kids seem to be having a blast, and everyone on the tour staff is loving their job working with young kids.

July 15-18 - Pensacola, FL - USSSA World Series

With tons of teams squaring off against each other in three different ...

Updated: Jul 17, 2007 4:25pm PST

July 19-20 - Atlanta, GA - Dizzy Dean World Series : We got to see the really young guys during our trip to the Dizzy Dean World Series in Atlanta. It was a coach-pitch tournament for 6U, and there were teams from Georgia, Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi and Florida participating. Two parks were being used for the World Series so we decided to go to Heritage Park to have some fun.

Kids were spinning the prize wheels for hours and walking away with free stuff. The players definitely look good out on the field wearing their Disney Channel eye black. We were there early in the morning and lasted till mid-afternoon when the rain and wind decided to be a party-pooper. It's on to Panama City Beach for a third time and a big-time tourney.

July 19-20 - Atlanta, GA - Dizzy Dean World Series

We got to see the really young guys during our trip to the Dizzy Dean ...

Updated: Jul 21, 2007 8:06am PST

July 22-26 - Panama City Beach, FL - Grand Slam World Series 2 : Panama City Beach has become the Baseball Youth Road Trip's home away from home, and it was exciting to be back for a third time since we got to see over 100 teams in the Grand Slam World Series 2. The weather was just perfect for baseball, but it's kind of hard to complain about anything when you're on the beach.

This tournament was loaded with some darn good teams from all over the place. There were a lot of older kids, and it was pretty sweet to see 13 and 14-year-olds hit home runs over 300 foot fences. One kid even bombed one over the Baseball Youth trailer that was parked about 50 feet past the fence. Some of the sizes of these young kids are just unbelievable. 

Panama City Beach has been such a success for this year's road trip so it was pretty hard to leave for good. It was easy to see how much fun the kids had playing games, winning prizes, eating candy, trying out bats, playing video games and hanging out with us. I think it's a guarantee we'll be back for more action next year. For now, don't forget to check out BaseballYouth.com and our magazine. We might just use your picture and make you famous.

On to Myrtle Beach!

July 22-26 - Panama City Beach, FL - Grand Slam World Series 2

Panama City Beach has become the Baseball Youth Road Trip's home away ...

Updated: Jul 26, 2007 8:02pm PST

July 28-29 - North Myrtle Beach, SC - Triple Crown Summer Nationals : The Triple Crown Summer Nationals was our first tournament stop in Myrtle Beach, and it was a perfect stop to our stay in South Carolina. The event was already into bracket play so we got to see the cream of the crop slug it out on some of the nicest fields we've seen yet.

Once we got everything set up the kids flocked to the Mojo pitching cage. It was the first time we had the radar gun set up, and it was awesome to see teammates and friends challenge each other to see who could throw the hardest. We gave out two separate prizes for the fastest throws of the day in two age divisions. Everyone wanted to try and break the day's record.

Families love coming to Myrtle Beach for baseball and vacation which makes it a prime stop for the Baseball Youth Road Trip. We're off to The Ripken Experience for two different tournaments, and we can't wait because it's one of the best places we go all year. We hope you're ready for the Cal Ripken World Series and the Little League World Series coming up. They are both right around the corner!

July 28-29 - North Myrtle Beach, SC - Triple Crown Summer Nationals

The Triple Crown Summer Nationals was our first tournament stop in Myr ...

Updated: Jul 29, 2007 8:06pm PST

July 31-August 2 - South Myrtle Beach, SC - Ocean Breeze Tourny at The Ripken Experience : There's really only one word that can be used to describe The Ripken Experience in Myrtle Beach: Wow! If only every youth ballpark could have all the awesome features of the Ripken facility. The Ocean Breeze was our first tournament at the Experience, and the Baseball Youth Road Trip had a great few days there.

Our road trip setup was near the front entrance which meant no one could enter or leave the place without seeing us. The Baseball Card Challenge was at its best for this tournament, and it will be out in full force for the second Ripken tournament we'll be at. 

We even had special guest workers on our last day at the tournament. Several girls and a couple boys took turns working the AirHeads booth, and it was so perfect for them. They were naturals at it, and I think they even showed our staff a thing or two about how to work. If only they could come with us for the rest of the tour. Thanks for your help girls and guys!

We're ready for the next group to come to The Ripken Experience. We'll be at the opening ceremonies Sunday, and it's sure to be one wild event. For now, it's probably a good thing for us to take a quick breather.

July 31-August 2 - South Myrtle Beach, SC - Ocean Breeze Tourny at The Ripken Experience

There's really only one word that can be used to describe The Ripken E ...

Updated: Aug 02, 2007 3:57pm PST

August 7-8 - Madison Heights, VA - Dixie Youth World Series : Our first ever tour stop to Virginia took us to Madison Heights and the Dixie Youth World Series. It was a massive event that brought in thousands of fans from many different states. The Baseball Youth Road Trip took it by storm, and we even camped out at the fields. 

Our set up was tucked behind some of the fields, but it didn't take long at all before the kids found us. The excitement was pretty cool at our tents and on the field because it was elimination day at the World Series. We were glad to take a little pressure off the kids and have some fun with them before they hit the diamond. 

This was just the start to our championship action since we'll be at the Cal Ripken World Series and the Little League World Series in the coming weeks. Now it's on to the first state in the United States: Delaware!

August 7-8 - Madison Heights, VA - Dixie Youth World Series

Our first ever tour stop to Virginia took us to Madison Heights and th ...

Updated: Aug 08, 2007 5:46pm PST

August 9-10 - Rehoboth Beach, DE - Sports At The Beach Tournament : Delaware was one heck of a stop as we hit a weekday tournament at Sports at the Beach. The night before we set up for the kids we had a big home run derby with some of the teams. The people at Sports at the Beach were nice enough to let us on the fields all night, and we absolutely rocked the house with some mammoth homers and some awesome music.

In such a short time we became good pals with a lot of the players, and we had a blast hanging out with them when we set up during the championship day. Like Virginia, we stayed at the complex which gave us a little breather from the RV. Sometimes it can get a little tight in there! We had our own bunk house, and it was just like the old days when we were playing baseball as kids.

Now we're on to the home of baseball and Cooperstown, NY. We'll be back at the Cooperstown All Star Village for a guaranteed great stop, and then it's on to the Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum.

August 9-10 - Rehoboth Beach, DE - Sports At The Beach Tournament

Delaware was one heck of a stop as we hit a weekday tournament at Spor ...

Updated: Aug 10, 2007 9:04pm PST

August 11-13 Cooperstown, NY - Cooperstown All-Star Village : There's really nothing like the birthplace of baseball. Just being in Cooperstown makes you feel baseball through your blood. The All-Star Village only operates 10 weeks out of the year, but they still draw a huge number to their baseball facility. It was great to be there for a second year in a row, and it was nice to be out of the heat for a change. (We were in sweatshirts at night!)

We set up in the same place we did last year although we took up a little more room this time. There were 24 teams at the village for the ninth week of action, and we hope they enjoyed the week as much as we did. The Baseball Card Challenge, Pack Wars and other fun games took up our time during our stay.

The Baseball Youth Road Trip had a special visitor our last day as Jackie from The Disney Channel came all the way from California to be with us. We hope she enjoyed her stay and had a blast with us in Cooperstown.

August 11-13 Cooperstown, NY - Cooperstown All-Star Village

There's really nothing like the birthplace of baseball. Just being in ...

Updated: Aug 13, 2007 3:28pm PST

August 14 - Cooperstown, NY - National Baseball Hall of Fame : No trip to Cooperstown is complete without seeing the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. It's probably the coolest place on Earth to be during the baseball season. We were back at Cooper Park for more excitement and to hand out baseball cards to everyone we saw, young and old. 

After hanging out for a few hours, we grabbed some classic Cooperstown lunch and headed to tour the Hall of Fame. It doesn't matter how many times you've been there it still gives you goosebumps. We had quite a day at the Hall of Fame after spending about 12 hours in Cooperstown. If only we could have spent 12 more. Oh well.

We're off to Aberdeen to check out the Cal Ripken World Series. Don't forget to check it out on the Versus channel for all the action. You may even see the Baseball Youth Road Trip!

August 14 - Cooperstown, NY - National Baseball Hall of Fame

No trip to Cooperstown is complete without seeing the National Basebal ...

Updated: Aug 15, 2007 5:14am PST

August 15-18 - Aberdeen, MD - Cal Ripken World Series : The Cal Ripken World Series keeps getting bigger every year, and it was great to be back for such an awesome event. Cal Sr's Yard had some upgrades from our first time there including a new playground in center field, the hotel/warehouse in right field and new seating along the first base and third base lines. It's truly one of the best youth fields in America.

We were there for four days, and it was packed every day of tournament play. Beyond our usual setup, we even got to play a game called QuickBall the first day we were there. Kids joined in the game and it was a blast trying to hit the small spongy ball. The first day we were in the Kids Area, but then we got the chance to be on the third base side in front of everyone. What a great spot!

Mexico made it back to the finals after losing the last two years and they faced off against the team from Florida. In the end, Mexico was too much for Florida to handle as the green, red and white took the Cal Ripken World Series championship back to their country. This was one of our best stops of the tour, and we're looking forward to Williamsport and the Little League World Series.

August 15-18 - Aberdeen, MD - Cal Ripken World Series

The Cal Ripken World Series keeps getting bigger every year, and it wa ...

Updated: Aug 19, 2007 9:40am PST

August 19 - Long Island, NY - Baseball Heaven World Series : The New York City traffic might have been tough to get through, but it was quite worth it since we were going to the Baseball Heaven World Series. Baseball Heaven is just 40 miles outside the largest country in the US, and we got to meet some baseball-crazy kids. The majority seemed to be Yankees fans since a lot of them were trying to hit Buster in the pitching cage (he wears a Boston uniform).

We got to set up right up next to the fields, and we were ducking and dodging foul balls all day. Kids were all over the place spinning wheels, playing the Baseball Card Challenge and winning prizes. Everyone walked away with arms full of candy and prizes. How can you beat playing baseball and winning free stuff? Life can't get any better.

We're on to the Little League World Series! (If we can get through that NYC traffic.)

August 19 - Long Island, NY - Baseball Heaven World Series

The New York City traffic might have been tough to get through, but it ...

Updated: Aug 21, 2007 6:47am PST

Meet the staff! : The 2007 Baseball Youth Road Trip staff is quite a collection of five wild and crazy guys. They come from all walks of like, but there's one thing they all have in common. Each one of them loves the game of baseball more than anything in the entire world. Some would say they are the five coolest guys out there, but you're going to have to find out for yourself when you see them at one of the BY Road Trip stops.

Meet the staff!

The 2007 Baseball Youth Road Trip staff is quite a collection of five ...

Updated: Jul 15, 2007 10:19am PST

Video

Updated: Dec 20, 2007 9:46pm PST

July 12-13 - Memphis, TN - Super Series National World Series : The baking Memphis sun welcomed the Baseball Youth Road Trip, sponsored by the Major League Baseball Players Association, Topps and Upper Deck, to its first stop Wednesday afternoon at the Super Series World Series Baseball Nationals. One look driving into the brand new First Tennessee Fields, and anyone can tell it will serve as a baseball heaven for a long time.

Kids from ages 9-13 and states across the Midwest and East Coast surrounded the 10-field complex and could not stay away from the Baseball Youth Zone featuring the Baseball Card Challenge, a spin-the-wheel free giveaway and a viewing of Harold Reynolds Presents Baseball.

In the Baseball Card Challenge, kids are asked trivia questions with the answers somewhere on trading cards they have for the game. Wednesday afternoon players could win their choice of a Topps Cosigner card or a pack of Topps cards.

Everyone wanted to spin the wheel, including parents, so they could try to win prizes like more trading cards, a Baseball Youth wristband, a copy of Baseball Youth or a free year’s subscription and a Zip-N-Hit batting trainer.

Next, the Road Trip moves to Hopkinsville, Ky. for the National Amateur Baseball Federation World Series Friday.

July 12-13 - Memphis, TN - Super Series National World Series

The baking Memphis sun welcomed the Baseball Youth Road Trip, sponsore ...

Updated: Jun 13, 2007 12:51pm PST

July 14-15 - Hopkinsville, KY - National Amateur Baseball Federation World Series : As players, parents, brothers and sisters walked into Tie Breaker Park in Hopkinsville, Ky., Friday they were greeted by the massive Baseball Youth Road Trip trailer in the second stop of the tour.

In the Bluegrass State, the main event was the National Amateur Baseball Federation Freshman World Series with 14 teams participating. Turns out we were one day late as Onley Pirates pitcher Danny Martinson pitched a perfect game in the tournament’s first contest.

We did not see pitching’s hardest feat, but the good weather must have traveled with us from Memphis because it was a perfect day for our national pastime. Only a freak one minute rain shower from the lone small dark cloud in the sky delayed the fun and games.

Just two stops into our long journey, and we can already tell what player most people love because they always want his baseball card above anyone else. That player is St. Louis Cardinals slugger Albert Pujols. While not everyone could get their paws on a Pujols card, everyone won multiple prizes throughout the day.

Louisville and Crosby Park better be ready for an unbelievably great time because the Baseball Youth Road Trip moves there next.

July 14-15 - Hopkinsville, KY - National Amateur Baseball Federation World Series

As players, parents, brothers and sisters walked into Tie Breaker Park ...

Updated: Jun 13, 2007 1:03pm PST

July 17-18 - Paintsville, KY - Little League Baseball Kentucky State Championships : After two stops in baseball lovin’ Kentucky, the Road Trip had time for one more before we made our way into Ohio. This time we were guests at the Little League Baseball Kentucky State Tournament in Paintsville.

Last year’s Kentucky State Champion and Little League World Series participant Owensboro Southern was back for another run at a title, and the players even had a little time to try their luck at our Baseball Card Challenge. We quickly found out they knew more than just how to play baseball.

Winners had the chance to win our cool prizes, and this time around we had packs of Fleer cards and Baseball Youth Road Trip trading pins to give away. Someone even walked away with a David Ortiz game-used jersey card. Unbelievable.

This may have been our busiest stop yet, but we’ll have to see how some of the next cities do in challenging Paintsville. It was great to hang out with so many players from the best teams in Kentucky. Hopefully, we’ll see one of the teams again when we head to Williamsport, Pa., for the Little League World Series.

July 17-18 - Paintsville, KY - Little League Baseball Kentucky State Championships

After two stops in baseball lovin’ Kentucky, the Road Trip had t ...

Updated: Jun 13, 2007 1:27pm PST

July 16 - Louisville, KY - AAU Baseball National Championship : The AAU National Championship was already underway Sunday at Crosby Park in Louisville, but that didn’t keep people from turning their heads away from the game to see the Baseball Youth Road Trip trailer pull up.

Once we got setup we were flooded with kids wanting to try out the Baseball Card Challenge for a chance at free prizes. It doesn’t look like card collecting will go away anytime soon because the kids couldn’t get enough.

It was awesome to see the kids sprint from our zone to show their parents what they won. Hearing kids say how much fun they had playing the games was also great. The time flew by, but now we are off to Kentucky’s eastern side for the Little League Baseball Kentucky State Championship in Paintsville.

July 16 - Louisville, KY - AAU Baseball National Championship

The AAU National Championship was already underway Sunday at Crosby Pa ...

Updated: Jun 13, 2007 1:10pm PST

July, 19 - Springboro, OH - National Amateur Baseball Federation World Series : We’re into our third state of the Baseball Youth Road Trip, and we’re just getting started. This time we ventured into Ohio and the town of Springboro for the National Amateur Baseball Federation World Series.

Earlier in the tour we were in Hopkinsville, Ky., for another NABF event, and this one was just as great as the first one. There was plenty of open space and green grass for us to set up our area, and before we were even ready players and fans gathered around to see what all the excitement was about.

A New York team even stopped by for the Baseball Card Challenge and some free prizes before they headed out to get ready to see their Mets take on the nearby Cincinnati Reds. We also got to hang out with other cool teams from the Cincinnati area, Indiana and Michigan.

Our Ken Griffey, Jr. and Adam Dunn cards were pretty popular today, but someone even walked away with a Pedro Martinez game-used jersey Fleer card. One day it was David Ortiz, now it’s Pedro. Who’s it going to be next?

I guess we’ll have to wait and see if some lucky person gets a valuable card at the Florence Freedom game tonight or at the next event in Cincinnati.

July, 19 - Springboro, OH - National Amateur Baseball Federation World Series

We’re into our third state of the Baseball Youth Road Trip, and ...

Updated: Jun 13, 2007 1:35pm PST

July 19 - Florence, KY - Florence Freedom Professional Baseball Game : After several youth events in Tennessee, Kentucky and Ohio it was time to try our hand at some professional baseball. We went to Champion Window Field, home of the Florence Freedom, and had our biggest crowd yet.

Usually, we just have about six participants per every round of our Baseball Card Challenge. This time we had to have as many as 12 just to get everyone involved as quickly as possible.

We were set up on the third base side next to a kid’s area, and it couldn’t have been a better place for us. Luckily, no one was hit by a foul ball since everyone was consumed with the game.

The Freedom put on a show for the fans putting up seven runs in their half of the first inning. Their opponent, the Kalamazoo Kings, could not make a comeback as the Freedom took the series’ final game 9-3.

It was great to check out some Minor League Baseball while we were in the Cincinnati area. The fans seemed like they had a blast hanging out with the Baseball Youth Road Trip and watching a Freedom victory. It can’t get much better than that.

July 19 - Florence, KY - Florence Freedom Professional Baseball Game

After several youth events in Tennessee, Kentucky and Ohio it was time ...

Updated: Jun 13, 2007 1:43pm PST

July 21-22 - Cincinnati, OH - Continental Amateur Baseball Association Ultimate World Series : We only had to move a few miles down the road for our next stop on the Baseball Youth Road Trip in nearby West Chester, Ohio. The  Continental Amateur Baseball Association Ultimate World Series was in town, and with it came lots of loud, screaming voices.

Everyone had a chance to check us out before the opening ceremonies kicked off, and it was hard dragging people away from our zone when it was time for the players to go. Teams from Puerto Rico joined us for the Baseball Card Challenge even though many of them only spoke Spanish. One of the parents translated the questions, and we went on having a blast with the game as usual. It was great taking the Road Trip to an international level.

There was a small rain delay before the first day’s games got under way, but the good news was the horrible heat and humidity had gone away. After several straight days sweating it out in the mid 90s, a day in the low 80s felt so good. A nice cool breeze made it pretty close to a perfect day.

Our zone was probably the busiest it has ever been since we started the trip almost two weeks ago. It was tough enough just to take a couple minutes to eat a little lunch. Players had something exciting to do in between, before and after games, and I think some brothers and sisters did not see a single pitch. We became close enough to some of the kids where we were calling them by their first names.

Ohio sure was an awesome time, but now we gotta head back to Kentucky to see who will represent the Ohio Valley region in the Cal Ripken World Series

July 21-22 - Cincinnati, OH - Continental Amateur Baseball Association Ultimate World Series

We only had to move a few miles down the road for our next stop on the ...

Updated: Jun 13, 2007 1:51pm PST

July 23-24 - Lexington, KY - Cal Ripken Baseball Ohio Valley Regional Championships : We’re almost done with the state of Kentucky before we make the trip south to the sunny Florida beaches, but there’s still some baseball to be seen and fun to be had in the Bluegrass State. This time we got to see a little Cal Ripken Baseball as 10 and 11-year-olds were squaring off in the Cal Ripken Baseball Ohio Valley Regional Championships.

Veterans Park in Lexington was a great spot to have the tournaments as tons of people poured in to root on the teams. Only two fields were used for game play at the park, but that opened up the other two for teams to take infield before their games started. There was also a place for players to take batting practice if they wanted.

The Baseball Youth Road Trip zone was right in the middle of the action, and the people at Veterans Park could not miss us because a lot of them had to go through us to get to their cars. As the morning turned into afternoon more and more kids and parents stopped by to play the Baseball Card Challenge and take a look at the magazine.

We even had a Battle of the Sexes competition as two teenage girls challenged a couple baseball players from their town to play the game against them. In a close game the girls won by a point and both of them got to spin the wheel for a free prize.

It was great to experience some Cal Ripken Baseball for the first time on our Road Trip. Good thing it will not be our last time.

July 23-24 - Lexington, KY - Cal Ripken Baseball Ohio Valley Regional Championships

We’re almost done with the state of Kentucky before we make the ...

Updated: Jun 13, 2007 2:03pm PST

July 26 - Huntsville, AL - Huntsville Stars Professional Baseball Game : The Baseball Youth Road Trip continues movin’ down south to the warm, sunny paradise that is Florida, but before we break out the beach towels and sunscreen, we decided to make a stop to see the AA  Huntsville Stars and Birmingham Barons go at it.

The famous NASA Space Camp may call Huntsville, Ala., its home, but we found a hidden gem in Joe W. Davis Municipal Stadium. The Stars were looking to continue their chase up the Southern League’s North Division leader board, and they did just that with a 8-1 win over the Barons. It was the Stars’ fourth win in a row

Fans poured into the stadium to cheer on the Stars and the Baseball Youth zone was right there at the entrance to greet them. People of all ages played the Baseball Card Challenge and won free prizes, including several stadium workers sneaking a break.

Two lucky kids won the chance to go on the field in the middle of the fourth inning for a chance to win free tickets to a future Stars game. They went on the field wearing their Baseball Youth Road Trip shirts proudly and won their tickets.

It was great experiencing another minor league game, and now it’s time to head out of Alabama so we can get to the Sunshine State for some more youth baseball.

July 26 - Huntsville, AL - Huntsville Stars Professional Baseball Game

The Baseball Youth Road Trip continues movin’ down south to the ...

Updated: Jun 13, 2007 2:10pm PST

July 27-30 - Panama City Beach, FL - Grand Slam World Series of Baseball : It’s pretty hard not staying on Panama City’s white beaches as the light blue Gulf of Mexico crashes into the shore, but there was some Baseball Card Challenge to play. Plus, there were over 100 teams from all over the United States at the Grand Slam World Series of Baseball who would have been disappointed if we did not show up.

As the games really got going, after the early morning, people from all over Frank Brown Park began spotting our Baseball Youth Road Trip trailer and zone. It was not long before we kids packed our zone wanting to play game after game with us.

Before the second day’s games even started, we pulled into the park and saw kids waiting for us on tables to get the Baseball Card Challenge going. Different teams would join us as the day went on. Some hung out with us before their game, and others waited until their games were over.

Thank goodness we get to stay in Florida, but we will in the middle of the state in Orlando. There may be no beaches, but there is Walt Disney World and Disney’s Wide World of Sports. It should be a great time.

July 27-30 - Panama City Beach, FL - Grand Slam World Series of Baseball

It’s pretty hard not staying on Panama City’s white beache ...

Updated: Jun 13, 2007 2:17pm PST

August 1-2 - Orlando, FL - USSSA Baseball Elite World Series Tournament : We didn’t see Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck or Goofy at the  Disney Wide World of Sports, but we did see plenty of kids at our Baseball Youth Road Trip zone during the  USSSA Baseball Elite World Series Tournament.

Teams were playing all over the 220-acre facility, but we found a perfect spot to set up and get our Baseball Card Challenge going. We saw teams from all over the United States, from Florida all the way to the West Coast in California. Some guys we saw at our first stop in Cordova, Tenn., even dropped in to say hey before they stepped onto the baseball field.

The Wide World of Sports, as we found out, is one amazing place. Over 170 amateur and professional events are played annually at the complex, and it was great to be a part of just one. There are baseball fields all over the place, and some of them are big enough where there can be a full-size football field in the outfield.

Besides baseball fields, there are soccer and lacrosse fields, a track, tennis complex, basketball arena and football fields. Really, any imaginable sport can be played on at least one of the fields. While we were hanging out playing the Baseball Card Challenge the NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers were at training camp just 500 yards away.

Too bad we can’t stay for a week at the Wide World of Sports, but we had an awesome time. Now it’s time for the Atlantic Ocean and Cocoa, Fla.

August 1-2 - Orlando, FL - USSSA Baseball Elite World Series Tournament

We didn’t see Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck or Goofy at the Disney ...

Updated: Jun 13, 2007 2:26pm PST

August 3-4 - Cocoa, FL - Cocoa Expo's Summer Classic : You could tell the Baseball Youth Road Trip pulled into a true Florida event when we saw bunches of palm trees waving with the stiff breeze. This time we were back near the beach for the Cocoa Expo’s Summer Classic.

We found a perfect place to set up our zone, and the next thing we knew we had kids surrounding us, curious about why we were there. The words Baseball Card Challenge and free prizes made them smile and yell for their friends to hurry over.

The Cocoa Expo Sports Center was a great place for youth baseball with 11 fields around the complex. There was even a 5,000-seat stadium where the championship games are played. In the past, several major league teams have called the Cocoa Expo Stadium their home for spring training.

With the heat wave still going on across the United States, we did all we could to keep ourselves cool. We drank plenty of liquids, and we’re glad the coaches were telling their players to drink water after every inning.

The Baseball Youth Road Trip did not have any water to hand out, but we certainly had plenty of other free things to give away. No one was complaining about the heat around us because they were too interested in having fun.

August 3-4 - Cocoa, FL - Cocoa Expo's Summer Classic

You could tell the Baseball Youth Road Trip pulled into a true Florida ...

Updated: Jun 13, 2007 2:36pm PST

August 6-9 - Myrtle Beach, SC - The Ripken Experience Tournaments : The Ripkens really know how to do baseball right. After a successful adventure into Florida, the Baseball Youth Road Trip made its way into Myrtle Beach, S.C., for a great stop at The Ripken Experience.

Two age divisions were squaring off to wind toward school’s beginning for kids everywhere. In between their games the players had the chance to come by our zone and play the Baseball Card Challenge. With all the wonderful features of the Ripken complex, it was just a pleasure to be a part of it.

Currently, there are seven fields, but two more have been planned with construction to begin shortly. The fields are modeled after old parks with the Polo Grounds, Griffith Field and Shibe Park making appearances. There are also batting cages, pitching mounds and smaller training fields surrounding the place.

We were placed directly in front of the main entrance and exit so we could draw the attention of anyone that walked in or out of the facility. Players, coaches and families could not help but wonder what was causing so much fun and laughter.

Now it’s time for some professional baseball in Zebulon, N.C., where the Carolina MudCats and their fans are awaiting our arrival.

August 6-9 - Myrtle Beach, SC - The Ripken Experience Tournaments

The Ripkens really know how to do baseball right. After a successful a ...

Updated: Jun 13, 2007 3:27pm PST

August 10 - Raleigh, NC - Carolina MudCats Professional Baseball Game : As we make our way north for the Baseball Youth Road Trip, we had plenty of time to visit the Carolina MudCats and the beautiful Five County Stadium. Carolina’s big catfish mascot, Muddy, is one of the most recognizable in all of Minor League Baseball.

We did our best to steal some of Muddy’s thunder and get some kids over to our zone in the stadium’s concourse. I think we succeeded for the most part. Kids lined up to play the Baseball Card Challenge, and we had a blast before and during the game.

A group of youth baseball players from outside Raleigh, N.C., were the first ones through when the gates open and they spotted the Road Trip trailer immediately. By the time the baseball game really got rolling, parents were having a hard time pulling their kids away so they could find their seats.

Baseball fans around the Raleigh area really are lucky to have a first class professional stadium. Too bad there was not a doubleheader so we could have enjoyed the facility even more.

August 10 - Raleigh, NC - Carolina MudCats Professional Baseball Game

As we make our way north for the Baseball Youth Road Trip, we had plen ...

Updated: Jun 13, 2007 3:36pm PST

August 13-15 - Cooperstown, NY - Cooperstown All-Star Village : The Baseball Youth Road Trip has been at the Cooperstown All-Star Village for only two days, and we already feel like a part of the family here. Nestled in the heart of baseball country, this place has everything players could ever dream.

You could almost sense the ghosts of past who played the game on the same piece of land or one close to it. The entire village was carved into a piece of land with rolling hills all around, and that scenery provides a unique feel. You almost have to experience it to truly understand the beauty.

The players, parents and umpires stay at the village throughout the week, and there’s plenty to keep the kids occupied. The Baseball Youth zone certainly gave the kids something to do when they were not on one of the fields playing a game. We gave out tons of free prizes to the hundreds of kids wanting to play the Baseball Card Challenge.

Our zone was always busy with kids trying to play game after game. Everyone there probably would have stayed till the sun went down, and then they would have asked us to put up lights. It was crazy!

Being a part of something that has become a great tradition in just a short time was awesome. I think we can put Cooperstown down as a place we will visit next year. It will almost be like a family reunion.

August 13-15 - Cooperstown, NY - Cooperstown All-Star Village

The Baseball Youth Road Trip has been at the Cooperstown All-Star Vill ...

Updated: Jun 13, 2007 3:49pm PST

August 16 - Cooperstown, NY - National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum : After a couple days at the Cooperstown All-Star Village it was time to make the 20-minute trip to the place where every baseball player hopes to end up one day, the National Baseball Hall of Fame.

We set up the Baseball Youth Road Trip zone right next to the building in the quiet, wooded Cooper Park. Pretty soon after we brought the cards and the prize wheel out the park was not as peaceful. As kids and parents finished their tour inside the Hall of Fame, they came out to try and win free prizes in the Baseball Card Challenge.

With the day complete, it was then time to take our own tour of baseball’s past greats. It was great to see all the plaques of so many awesome players. I can’t believe anyone would not get chills walking into the room where all the plaques are mounted.

The whole town of Cooperstown is centered around baseball as the town square where the Hall of Fame stands is lined with baseball shops and places to eat. The setting is beautiful as thousands of people walk the streets, taking in as much baseball as possible.

What a special stop for our Baseball Youth Road Trip. Now it’s time to wrap up the tour with the two biggest championships in youth baseball, the Cal Ripken World Series and the Little League World Series.

August 16 - Cooperstown, NY - National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum

After a couple days at the Cooperstown All-Star Village it was time to ...

Updated: Jun 13, 2007 3:59pm PST

August 17-21 - Aberdeen, MD - Cal Ripken Baseball World Series : The end of August means summer’s leaving us and school’s beginning. It also means two of youth baseball’s biggest events are going on, and the Baseball Youth Road Trip will be there to see them. First, we stopped in Aberdeen, Md., for the final three days of the Cal Ripken World Series.

We got the zone going just beyond the outfield wall, and once we got the cards and prize wheel out it was like kids were magnetized to them. The first day we were there we had a special game called ‘Pack Wars,’ and the game was full of incredible new prizes. Kids walked away with figurines, card sets, an Ichiro jersey and someone even won an Xbox system with two games.

The kids were extremely loud this weekend, and with so many of them our ears are still ringing. They were all so excited to play the Baseball Card Challenge and our new game, Pack Wars. We probably spent more time with some of the kids this weekend than their parents.

As far as the World Series went, a team from Hawaii won it all for the second straight year. Mexico made it to the finals for the third straight year, but they could not figure out a way to keep the powerful Hawaii hitters from scoring runs.

Only one more stop remains, and it’s Williamsport, Pa., for the Little League World Series.

August 17-21 - Aberdeen, MD - Cal Ripken Baseball World Series

The end of August means summer’s leaving us and school’s b ...

Updated: Jun 13, 2007 4:13pm PST

August 22-28 - Williamsport, PA - Little League Baseball World Series : What a way to end the Baseball Youth Road Trip with an amazing  Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pa. The town is truly baseball-centered, and it was great to see how everyone comes together to make the event so unique.

We had an awesome time playing the Baseball Card Challenge with so many kids. At an event like the Little League World Series, you would have thought the entire town was run by kids. They were everywhere, and they could not get enough of our card game and the free prizes that went with it.

One day during a game at Lamade Stadium, we went up to the top of the massive hill beyond the outfield wall and handed out tons of free card packs. Kids have a blast sliding down the hill on top of pieces of cardboard, but once they heard the words 'free baseball cards,' they quickly stopped what they were doing and mobbed us.

Even though the championship game between Japan and Columbus, Ga., was postponed a day it was still an incredible game down to the last out. Georgia's Kyle Carter delivered a masterful performance on the mound, shutting down the feared Japanese lineup with 11 strikeouts.

Cody Walker hit a two-run home run in the third inning, and that was all Georgia needed to win the Little League World Series over Japan, 2-1. Both teams played outstanding baseball throughout the tournament, but only one can be crowned the champion.

With the final out of the World Series the Baseball Youth Road Trip has come to an end. The past month and a half has been absolutely awesome with all the friends we made along the way. We can't wait till next year when we fire up the SUV and hit the road for a bigger and better trip around the United States.

August 22-28 - Williamsport, PA - Little League Baseball World Series

What a way to end the Baseball Youth Road Trip with an amazing Little ...

Updated: Jun 13, 2007 4:20pm PST

Cooperstown, New York - Cooperstown Baseball World :

Cooperstown, New York - Cooperstown Baseball World

Updated: Aug 10, 2009 6:09am PST

baseball card

Updated: Aug 22, 2009 7:18pm PST

card :

card

Updated: Aug 22, 2009 7:27pm PST

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