After nearly four decades away from the state stage, District 16/31 Little League is set to reclaim its place as the host of the Major Baseball state tournament. The announcement comes as eight sectional champions prepare to converge on Jenkins Township field, where the competition will unfold from Monday through Sunday.
A Historic Return to the Diamond
The schedule promises a dense slate of matchups, each designed to test the mettle of teams that have already survived rigorous sectional play. From early afternoon start times to evening contests, the tournament will showcase a blend of seasoned contenders and rising talent.
Open ceremonies are slated for 6 p.m. on Sunday at the Tomato Festival Grounds on South Main Street in Pittston, offering fans a chance to celebrate the participants before the first pitch is thrown. The event will be held in the heart of the Back Mountain region, a locale that has seen its teams make notable appearances in recent state tournaments.
Among the participants, Hollidaysburg stands out as the sole team returning from last year’s tournament, while West Point and Newtown‑Edgmont are the only squads that have tasted defeat in their sectional brackets. Their presence adds a layer of narrative intrigue, as each aims to rewrite their recent histories.
The champion of this state tournament will earn a coveted berth in the Mid‑Atlantic Little League Baseball Tournament in Bristol, Connecticut. That progression underscores the broader significance of the event, linking local competition to a regional stage that draws the attention of scouts and families alike.
District officials have indicated that the current host arrangement will not be renewed until 2034, making this year’s tournament a singular opportunity for the community to showcase its facilities and hospitality. The schedule’s final day will culminate in the championship game, after which the winning team will embark on the journey to Connecticut.