The long-standing Licking County Shrine Tournament, a prominent recreational baseball competition, is set to embark on a new chapter, transitioning its 81st annual event to the Licking Valley Youth Sports Association. This significant relocation follows the conclusion of its extensive collaboration with Mound City Little League. The tournament, renowned for its philanthropic endeavors supporting children's hospitals, will compress its schedule this year, unfolding between June 5th and June 15th at the McGee Park and Legacy Park facilities.
Licking County Shrine Tournament Finds New Home, Retains Charitable Spirit
NEWARK, Ohio — A beloved tradition in local recreational baseball, the Licking County Shrine Tournament, is poised for a significant move to Licking Valley. Organizers of the esteemed event formally announced this transition and a new alliance with the Licking Valley Youth Sports Association on April 12, 2026, via social media channels. This development marks the end of an era, as the Licking County Shrine Club and Mound City Little League concluded their long-standing partnership in November of the preceding year. For over eight decades, the tournament has predominantly been hosted at Mound City, culminating in its 80th edition last summer.
A core element of the tournament's enduring legacy is its commitment to charity. With a consistent admission fee of just one dollar, all proceeds are meticulously directed towards supporting vital medical institutions, including Cincinnati Burns Hospital, Lexington (Kentucky) Orthopedic Hospital, and Erie (Pennsylvania) Hospital, continuing a tradition of giving that spans generations.
The forthcoming tournament will uphold its established divisions for young athletes, featuring categories for "Farm" teams, comprising players aged nine and ten, and "Varsity" teams, for those aged eleven and twelve. A notable modification for this year's event is a more concentrated schedule. The competition is slated to commence on June 5th and conclude on June 15th, with games hosted across McGee Park and Legacy Park. Both the Farm and Varsity divisions will accommodate up to 32 teams each, promising a vibrant and competitive atmosphere. Teams eager to participate can secure their spot by reaching out to the Shrine Club directly via email.
This relocation and the establishment of a new partnership signify a fresh start for the Licking County Shrine Tournament. It highlights the adaptability and enduring spirit of community organizations dedicated to youth sports and charitable causes. The continued commitment to supporting vital children's hospitals underscores the profound impact such local events can have, fostering both athletic development and a culture of philanthropy. As the tournament prepares for its 81st iteration in its new home, it reinforces the power of collaboration and community engagement in upholding cherished traditions while embracing change for future growth.
