Hundreds of players, coaches, families and fans converged at the Royal Oak Event Center in New Ulm for the Minnesota American Legion Division 1 State Baseball Tournament Banquet, marking the centennial celebration of the state’s Legion baseball tradition.
A Century of Competition
Organizer Casey Lux joined veteran tournament director John Anderson on stage to open the ceremony, underscoring the historical significance of the 100‑year milestone.
Keynote speaker Brian Raabe, a New Ulm native and former Major League Baseball player, reflected on his journey from local fields to the professional ranks.
Raabe urged the young athletes to find the position that best fits their strengths, to choose a school that will prepare them for the next fifty years of their lives, and to approach every practice and game with relentless hard work and competitiveness.
He took the opportunity to thank the organizers, volunteers and the broader military community, acknowledging the service of veterans and active‑duty members who receive complimentary admission to the tournament.
Ticket pricing was announced, with individual games priced at ten dollars and a full tournament pass available for forty dollars, while veterans and service members can attend free of charge.
The champion of this year’s event will earn a berth at the regional tournament in Fargo, North Dakota, scheduled for August 4‑9, continuing the pathway toward national recognition.