Adorable New-Generation Mini Baseball Tournament Brings 24 Youth Teams to the Field

Twenty-four youth baseball teams gathered in Taichung for the second New Generation Mini Baseball Invitational, as hundreds of children took part in what may be their first formal games.

The event, organized by the Taiwan New Generation Care Association, opened at a baseball stadium in Shengang District. The competition features U9 and U11 divisions, with 12 teams in each. Including coaches, parents and staff, more than 760 people attended, filling the grounds with running young players and cheers.

The association expanded the tournament this year to give more young children the chance to put on a uniform and enter a real competition. About 480 players are taking part, experiencing batting, base running and teamwork on the field.

At the opening ceremony, association founder and Legislative Yuan Deputy Speaker Chiang Chi-chen joined association chairman Chiang Wen-kuo, city councilors and a Taichung government official. Taiwan women’s national team players Chiu Yi-ling and Cheng Chia-chen also joined Chiang Chi-chen for the ceremonial first pitch.

Chiang said many of the U9 players were likely taking part in their first formal competition. Years from now, they might not remember the score, he said, but they may remember wearing a uniform with teammates, hitting a ball, running home and even crying after a loss. Association Secretary-General Tu Li-hsuan said the group would continue working with local sports resources to develop youth and community baseball.

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Years from now, the children may no longer remember the score from this day, but the experience of wearing a uniform with their teammates, hitting the ball, running home and even shedding tears after a loss will become precious childhood memories.