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American Legion Baseball Celebrates 100 Years of Tradition, Growth, and Patriotism

by Derek White


American Legion Baseball is marking a major milestone in 2025 as the storied program celebrates its 100th anniversary. To honor the centennial, teams across the country, including those in Kansas, are commemorating the season with special 100-year patches as part of their uniforms.


The historic year brings not only celebration but also exciting developments in Kansas American Legion Baseball (KALB), which began just a year after the national program was founded in 1925. Since its Kansas inception in 1926, the league has continued to evolve, and this season features new initiatives and structural changes aimed at improving access and player development.


One of the most notable additions is the creation of a 15-and-under (15U) league, which joins the existing 17U and 19U programs.


“After talking with coaches and parents, we decided to start a 15U league, which coaches said would help keep team chemistry from when they are 13 years old up to when they graduate high school,” explained Joe Durham, chairman of Kansas American Legion Baseball. “KALB has a great tradition—something we are very proud of.”


With this reorganization, KALB now offers four divisions:

  • Class D (15U)

  • Class C (17U)

  • Class B (19U – small schools)

  • Class A (19U – large schools)


Teams in Class A will have the opportunity to advance to the Regional Tournament in Washington, Missouri this August. The winner from that event moves on to the prestigious American Legion World Series in Shelby, North Carolina.


Key Tournament Dates:

  • July 10–13: Zone Tournament window opens for 15U & 17U

  • July 17–20: 17U State Tournament – Topeka

  • July 18–21: 15U State Tournament – Wellington

  • July 16–20: Zone Tournament window opens for 19U

  • July 25–28: 19U State Tournaments – Class A in Topeka, Class B in Hiawatha


Each year, KALB awards a scholarship to one Kansas player, who then competes nationally for a chance to win a $25,000 scholarship from the American Legion.


The organization continues to embody the values of Americanism and patriotism, proudly supporting the nation’s youth and honoring the service of veterans across the country. A special Lou Gehrig Day will be recognized on June 2, further tying baseball tradition to American history.


For more information, including schedules, registration details, and updates, visit:


Questions can be directed to Chairman Joe Durham at 785-202-1040.

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