Branson, Missouri Receives Cal Ripken Major/70 World Series Through 2022

---

Hamilton, New Jersey… There’s no place like home, especially in the game of baseball.  When the City of Branson, Missouri welcomed the Cal Ripken Major/70 World Series to Ozarks County in 2017, it did so with the forward-thinking support of not only Babe Ruth League, Inc., but the Branson Chamber and Convention & Visitors Bureau (BCCVB) and Ballparks of America.  The result has been a strong collaboration focused on taking this baseball experience for young athletes, with its proven International appeal, through 2022.  For the partners, “Explore Branson” is not just a tag line.  It is a welcome mat to a home-away-from-home, where these young baseball players will learn and affirm the Sportsmanship Code of Babe Ruth League. 

“Babe Ruth League players and coaches, along with their families and fans, approach our Cal Ripken Major/70 World Series as a once in a lifetime experience because it is an extraordinary opportunity,” said BRL Vice President/Commissioner Robert Faherty.  “The leaders in Branson echo that perspective.  They model the Sportsmanship Code that is paramount to our mission and vision.  Their warm welcome and professionalism has allowed thousands to enjoy the excitement of the World Series, leaving the worries of the world behind.”

Extending the commitment to 2022 will provide an estimated 10,000 more young athletes and spectators from around the world the opportunity to experience highly-competitive play and to “Explore Branson” with all of its charm and entertainment.

Terra Alphonso, Director of Sports Marketing and Development for the BCCVB said, “Branson is a great family destination for youth sports. With exceptional facilities like Ballparks of America, breathtaking nature, rich history and plenty of adventure, we are the ideal host for the Cal Ripken Major/70 World Series. We are thankful for the many great relationships forged through our collaboration with Babe Ruth League, Inc.  The opportunity to continue to exceed everyone’s expectations inspires us as we strive to provide not only a competitive and exciting youth baseball tournament, but an educational and cultural experience for all involved.”

BRL President/CEO Steven Tellefsen agreed.  “For an organization like ours that promotes the teaching of teamwork, we certainly found great teammates in Branson!” he said, adding, “Partnering with Branson has helped us strengthen our unique brand of 70-foot baseball.  By announcing our continuing relationship, we are also celebrating success.”

Babe Ruth League, Inc. is a non-profit, educational organization dedicated to developing better citizens by providing properly supervised baseball and softball competition for players ages 4 through 18.  It is the basic intent of Babe Ruth League that every player who has a desire to play the sport is given the opportunity to participate and have fun.  This, above all, promotes good sportsmanship and the healthy development of youth.