This resolution commemorates the centennial of American Legion Baseball and honors Shelby, North Carolina, for its dedicated role as the permanent home of the American Legion World Series.
Tim Moore
Representative
NC-14
This resolution commemorates the 100th anniversary of American Legion Baseball and the American Legion World Series, celebrating a century of fostering character, sportsmanship, and patriotism in young athletes. It formally honors the city of Shelby, North Carolina, and Cleveland County for their dedicated role as the permanent home of the World Series. The bill recognizes the program's significant national impact and expresses appreciation to the community members who have supported this storied athletic tradition.
This resolution formally recognizes the centennial of American Legion Baseball, marking a century since the program was chartered in 1925. The bill highlights the 2026 American Legion World Series, scheduled for August 13–18, as the official 100th-anniversary celebration of the first series played in 1926. Beyond the history, the legislation officially commends Shelby, North Carolina, and Cleveland County for serving as the permanent home of the tournament since 2011, noting the significant local investments made to Veterans Field at Keeter Stadium to accommodate over 100,000 fans and national ESPN broadcasts.
For the roughly 13- to 19-year-olds playing across all 50 states and Canada, this isn't just about a game; it’s about a pipeline that has produced 82 Baseball Hall of Famers and inspired thousands to enter military service. The resolution specifically points to the program’s role in teaching discipline and respect for veterans as a core part of its mission. By formalizing this recognition, the House is putting a stamp of approval on the program’s ability to develop character and patriotism through amateur athletics, citing the historical win of Shelby Post 82 in 1945 as a symbol of that long-standing community connection.
If you’ve ever wondered how a local stadium becomes a national landmark, this bill explains the blueprint. It credits the residents, coaches, and volunteers of Shelby for turning their city into a "source of community pride" through consistent hospitality and infrastructure upgrades. By honoring Shelby and Cleveland County’s "steadfast commitment," the resolution reinforces the town’s status as a permanent fixture in American sports culture. For the local small business owners and families in North Carolina, this serves as a formal thank-you for the resources and covered seating that have turned a local field into a modern, nationally recognized tournament headquarters.