LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla.– Ripken Baseball, a leader in youth baseball experiences, and Walt Disney World Resorts have agreed to host premier youth baseball experiences at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in the summers of 2025 and 2026, involving four week-long tournaments each year.
The Ripken Experience at Walt Disney World Resort will be a unique opportunity for teams nationwide to compete in world-class tournaments for ages 10 to 16. The games will take place across 11 ballfields–six youth-sized baseball fields equipped with lights for night games and five professional-sized fields, including The Stadium at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. This venue has hosted Major League Baseball spring training games and regular-season games for over two decades.
“A fundamental principle of Ripken Baseball is the emphasis on fun, making ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort the perfect venue for competition and a family sports travel experience,” says Cal Ripken, Jr. “We are excited to collaborate with the iconic and globally recognized Walt Disney World to deliver unforgettable experiences for teams and their families.”
The Ripken Experience is more than just baseball. Participants and their families will have numerous opportunities for magical experiences beyond the baseball diamond. Teams will enjoy a spectacular opening ceremony and have leisure time to explore Disney parks, where they can experience classic attractions as well as exciting new ones.
The first tournament will begin on June 8, 2025, and run through June 13, 2025. Week two will occur from June 15 to 20; week three from June 22 to 27; and Week four from July 6 to 11. Specific dates for 2026 will be announced later.
Each week-long experience features a comprehensive package that includes a minimum of six games and a maximum of nine games, along with opening day ceremonies and skills competitions. Additionally, a Major League Baseball Tournament Ambassador will be on site to engage with players and coaches.
Teams can reserve their spot for The Ripken Experience at Walt Disney World Resort at Ripken Baseball or by calling 410-306-7575.
