Ripken National Championships FAQs

Q: What is the Daily Itinerary for Ripken National Championships?

Click here to view the Cooperstown All Star Village Map

Click here to view the Daily Itinerary PDF

A: Monday, June 29^th

• 9 AM – 2:30 PM: Team Check-in and uniform distribution (Teams will be assigned a 30 min. time slot)
• 2 – 4 PM: Practice session #1 (Teams will be assigned a 1-hr time slot)
• 5:30 PM: Opening Ceremonies

Tuesday, June 30^th

• 9 AM – 3:30 PM: Team Hall of Fame visits (Teams will be assigned a time slot that corresponds with practice session #2)
• 9 AM – 3:30 PM: Practice session #2 (Teams will be assigned a 1-hr time slot that corresponds with their Hall of Fame visit)
• 4 PM: mandatory manager’s meeting
• 6 PM: Skills competitions

Wednesday, July 1st

• 8 AM – 10 PM: Pool play games, teams will each play 2 games.

Thursday July 2^nd

• 8 AM – 5 PM: Pool play games, teams will each play 1 game.

Friday, July 3^rd

• 8 AM: Bracket play begins through to quarterfinals

Saturday, July 4^th

• 11 AM: Miracle League Game + athlete volunteerism
• Family Fun events throughout the day (watermelon eating contest, Mom’s Home Run Derby, face painting, and more!)
• 12 PM & 3 PM: Semifinal games
• 7 PM: Championship Game live on CBS Sports Network

Q: When is team check-in?

A: Team check-in is from 9:00 – 2:30 PM on Monday, June 29^th. Teams will receive an assigned 30-minute time slot for check-in closer to the event. During this team check-in, teams will also receive their Ripken National Championships uniforms and gear.

Q: What information does my team need to turn in prior to arrival?

A: Teams must complete their medical waivers, Ankored age verification, and certificate of insurance before check-in.

Q: What is the Hall of Fame Tour?

A: Teams and coaches will receive a one-of-a-kind, guided tour of the Baseball Hall of Fame on Tuesday, June 30^th. Tours will occur in 2 sessions, the first being from 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, and the second from 12:30 – 3:30 PM. Teams will be assigned their session and transportation information closer to the event.

Q: Can parents and families attend the Hall of Fame Tour?

Parents and families can purchase tickets to the Baseball Hall of Fame HERE. Due to space constraints; we are unable to extend the guided tour to Ripken National Championships families.

Q: Does my team have an assigned practice time?

A: Teams will have 2 practice slots. The first is in the afternoon of June 29^th and the second is on June 30^th. Teams will receive their specific timeslot and field closer to the event.

Q: Where can I direct Ripken National Championships questions?

A: All questions can be directed to [email protected]

Q: What is provided in the uniform package?

A: Each athlete will receive: 2 Under Armour jerseys, 1 pair of Under Armour pants, 2 pairs of Under Armour socks, 1 belt, 1 practice shirt, and 1 pair of practice shorts.

Q: Do teams need to bring their own hats?

A: Yes, teams should bring their team hats to wear on the field. We want you to represent your team on the National Championships stage!

Q: Should teams bring their own equipment?

A: Each team will receive 2 sets of catcher’s gear (1 youth size and 1 intermediate size) and 8 batting helmets (3 RHB with jaw guards, 2 LHB with jaw guards, and 3 without jaw guards) courtesy of our partners at Rawlings.

Q: What is provided in the coaches uniform package?

A: Each coach will receive: 1 cage jacket, 1 practice shirt and 1 pair of shorts

Q: Do the Coaches have to wear baseball pants?

A: No — coaches do not have to wear baseball pants. Coaches can wear whatever is comfortable for them to coach, including shorts. We just ask that whatever you wear be tournament-appropriate and consistent across your coaching staff so the team looks unified on the field

Q: What shoes are acceptable to wear?
A: We are 100% a turf facility, we highly recommend turf shoes, no metal cleats but molded are acceptable.

Q: What is the Laundry Process? 
A: Team Laundry Process

Q: What should we pack? 
A: Ripken National Championships Packing List

Q: Are players allowed to wear long-sleeve shirts, hoodies, or windbreakers under or over the jersey during games — and if so, are there color restrictions (especially for pitchers)?
A: Yes, players can absolutely wear long-sleeve shirts, hoodies, or windbreakers underneath their uniform for warmth or sun protection. The one rule is that the layer must be worn under the jersey (not over it), and any solid color is fine except white, since white can cause depth perception issues for batters tracking the ball. Pitchers especially should avoid anything white on the arms.

Q: Are the fields turf or grass — should players bring turf cleats, metal cleats, molded cleats, or all three?
A: As of the 2026 season, every single field at Cooperstown All Star Village is turf — so you can pack lighter than you might expect. We highly recommend turf cleats or athletic sneakers as the primary footwear. Molded cleats are permitted as well. Metal cleats are not allowed on any field, no exceptions.

Q: Are sliding shorts, compression gear, and undergarments included in the daily team laundry, or do those need to be hand-washed?
A: Yes — our Cooperstown All Star Village Laundry team handles all of the on-field gear for your player, so the daily turnaround is taken care of. That includes sliding shorts, compression gear, undergarments worn under the uniform, and chest protectors. What we don’t wash is anything worn off the field — regular day-to-day clothes, casual outfits, swimwear, etc. — so we recommend packing enough non-uniform clothing for the full week.

Q: Do all players on a team have to match exactly when layering (long sleeves under jerseys, etc.)?
A: Yes — when a team takes the field, the entire uniform needs to match across all players. When it comes to layering, not every player has to layer, but any players who do need to match each other: if some guys are wearing long sleeves under the jersey, those players all need to be in the same color long sleeves. Same goes for hats, socks, and accessories. It keeps the team looking sharp and avoids any uniform issues with umpires.

Q: Where do players store their luggage between arrival and bunkhouse move-in?
A: There is no dedicated space for players to store their luggage between arrival and bunkhouse move-in. Players will need to keep luggage in their car until move-in begins at 12:00 p.m.

Q: Is there a recommended hotel for the night before check-in if our team is traveling from far away?
A: Yes — for families traveling from far away, we strongly recommend arriving the night before check-in so you’re rested and on-site early on Day 1 (and not stressing about a delayed flight or long drive). For partner hotels and a full breakdown of nearby on-site and off-site lodging options, see our Where to Stay guide, and for the closest airports and travel logistics, see our Getting to Cooperstown guide. Travel and accommodations questions can be sent to [email protected].

Q: What is the medication check-in process — what do parents bring, how is it stored, and who administers it?
A: Here’s how the medication check-in process works: at 12:00 p.m. on Day 1, when the bunkhouse area opens, parents bring all of their player’s medications to our medical staff at the medical center in Player Village — with two exceptions, EpiPens and inhalers, which the player keeps with them at all times. Our 24/7 on-site medical staff (EMTs and registered nurses) will store the medications securely and administer them on the prescribed schedule throughout the week. For everything you’ll need to prepare on the medical side (forms, deadlines, what to bring), see our Registration & Medical Guide. For questions about a specific medical situation, allergy plan, or accommodation, please reach out to [email protected].

Where do family members go and what can they do during the player check-in process?
A: Family members are free to enjoy the property however they’d like: explore Cooperstown All Star Village’s restaurants, concession stands, food trucks, the gift shop, and more. From 12:00 p.m. to 4:15 p.m., family members are welcome to help their player move into the bunkhouse, but the bunkhouse area closes to families promptly at 4:15 p.m. and only players and coaches remain inside Player Village after that.

Q: When is the Game Schedule Released?

A: The game schedules will be released on Monday, June 15^th. Teams will receive an email when the schedule is live!

Q: Where can I find the tournament rules?

A: Ripken National Championships Tournament Rules can be found HERE

Q: What is the Tie Breaker System

• • When teams are tied
    •Record
    •Fewest runs allowed
    •Most runs scored
    •Head-to-head results (if applicable)
    •Coin flip

Q: How many games does each team play?
A: Each team is guaranteed 4 games (WEATHER PERMITTING) 3 pool play games and 1 playoff game. The playoff bracket is single elimination.

Q: What happens when there is a rain delay?
A: Each coach is required to give their cell phone number upon arrival for the notification system. If there is inclement weather, Cooperstown All Star Village directors will make the call when games should stop playing due to safety concerns and field conditions. If a game is called due to weather conditions, each coach is required to have their device on them and stand by until further notice. The Cooperstown All Star Village baseball director will notify each coach through the notification system when the schedule will be moving forward. NOTE: It is the responsibility of the coaches to notify the players and their families of the new start times after a rain delay.

Q. What are the rules around the playing fields?
A. For security purposes: Only Players and Coaches with the mandated Cooperstown All Star Village wristbands are allowed in the dugouts. If someone is caught in the player and coach dugout without the wristband on, they will be removed from the dugout by Cooperstown All Star Village staff. Parents and spectators have separate seating away from the players and coach’s dugout. Each spectator dugout is covered and equipped with seating. No spectators will be allowed on the field of play at any time.

There is NO FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY during gameplay. Spectators are allowed to bring their own photography equipment. AT NO TIME is any equipment allowed to hang from the fencing of any of the fields, nor are they allowed on the field of play.

There is no outside food, beverages, or coolers allowed down by the fields. (Only coolers with water are allowed)
Coaches are responsible for the actions of their players and fans. Cooperstown All Star Village policy is to cheer on both teams.
Cooperstown All Star Village does not allow any horns.

Q: When will the playoff schedule be posted?
After pool play concludes, the playoff schedule will be released through LeagueApps and is updated with seeding and the bracket. Coaches have one hour to visit baseball operations and discuss any discrepancies with a director. After this period, the bracket becomes final.

1. Record
2. Runs Against
3. Head-to-Head (if applicable)
4. Runs Scored

Q: What are the field dimensions at Cooperstown All Star Village?

A: All 12 of our fields are designed to 12U standards, with field dimensions of a 50-foot pitching distance, 70-foot base paths. Every field is turf, and the dimensions are consistent across the campus so teams can prepare with confidence. For complete on-field rules and tournament play details, see the Ripken National Championships rules HERE

Q: If games are interrupted by weather, how are makeup games scheduled — and how are families notified? 

Our Baseball Operations staff monitors weather and field conditions continuously throughout the week, and we use a strict lightning policy to keep players and spectators safe. If a game is delayed, paused, or rescheduled due to weather, all updates are communicated in real time through LeagueApps — both via email and SMS — so the fastest way to stay informed is to make sure your LeagueApps notifications are turned on. For our full lightning protocol, see the Cooperstown 2026 Lightning Policy: HERE

Q: Where is the official source for live schedule updates and field assignments during the week?

All scores and stats will be available on GameChanger.

Q: Are players allowed to use walk-up music? Are speakers permitted on or near the fields?

Yes — players are welcome to bring walk-up music and teams are welcome to bring portable speakers. Two ground rules: the volume needs to stay at a level that doesn’t disrupt your own game or any games on neighboring fields, and the music must be appropriate (no explicit lyrics). Cooperstown All Star Village staff may ask teams to lower volume if it’s affecting nearby fields.

Q: Is music allowed between innings or during warm-ups? 

Yes — between-innings music and warm-up music are both permitted under the same guidelines as walk-up music: appropriate content (no explicit lyrics) and a volume that doesn’t disrupt your own game or any neighboring games. Note that during games, music selection is at the team’s discretion; during the Championship game of the Gold bracket, Cooperstown All Star Village handles all music.

Q: What are the bunkhouses like?
A: Cooperstown All Star Village bunkhouses include the following: A smart flat screen TV with cable, three full sized beds for the coaches, and twin sized beds (bunks) for the players, air conditioning, garbage can, a large storage bin outside the bunks to keep personal items safe (padlock not included).

Q: Where can we place our valuables?
A: There are two (2) lockable bins in each bunkhouse for your use. Please provide your own locks.

Q: Do the players and coaches have to bring bedding?
A: No, each Ripken National Championships team will receive a complimentary bunkhouse accommodations package. Each package includes a fitted sheet, a flat sheet, a pillow with a Cooperstown All Star Village pillowcase, a blanket, a team cooler, and one box fan. The package is a rental and must be returned at the end of the week.

Q: How many players and coaches can stay in the bunkhouses?
A: The bunkhouses at Cooperstown All Star Village hold 16-20 total participants.

Q: Do all coaches need to stay in the bunkhouses?

A: A minimum of 2 coaches over the age of 21 must be in the bunkhouses with the athletes at all times.

Q: Where do female players stay when they attend Cooperstown All Star Village?

A: We have separate accommodations in Player Village for female players. Please reach out to [email protected] or your team coordinator if  you have any additional questions.

Q: Do the bunkhouses have air conditioning? If not, what kind of fans are allowed, and where is power available?
A: Yes, every bunkhouse is air-conditioned. That said, we still recommend bringing a fan or two — they help circulate air throughout the space and most teams find the airflow makes a noticeable difference, especially during warmer weeks. Power outlets are available in every bunkhouse, so plug-in fans work great. (One box fan also comes with the team’s bedding package — see the bedding question above.)

Q: Are blackout curtains, light-blocking covers, or window coverings allowed in the bunkhouse windows?
A: For the most up-to-date guidance on window coverings inside the bunkhouses, please reach out to our Health & Safety team at [email protected] and they’ll get you a definitive answer.

Q: What is the bunkhouse bathroom and shower setup — are showers private, semi-private, or open-bay?
A: The player bunkhouses have an open-bay bathroom layout with shared shower facilities. Coaches have their own private showers. We recommend players bring shower shoes/flip-flops, a quick-dry towel (towels aren’t provided — see below), and a small toiletry caddy to make the daily routine easier.

Q: Are towels provided, or should players pack their own?
A: Towels are not provided, so players and coaches will need to pack their own. We recommend at least two. Quick-dry microfiber towels work especially well in the bunkhouse environment.

Q: Is there WiFi in the bunkhouses, and how reliable is cell service on property?
A: Yes, WiFi is available in all of the bunkhouses, and cell service across the property is reliable on T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T. Most families and players are able to stay in touch throughout the week without issue.

Q: Are players allowed to keep snacks, drinks, or coolers in the bunkhouse?
A: Per Cooperstown All Star Village’s Health and Safety guidelines, food and drinks are not allowed in the bunkhouses — water is the only exception. This policy keeps the bunkhouses clean and pest-free for everyone. Players will have full access to meals and snacks at Player Dining, which is open early morning through late evening throughout the week.

Q: How much storage space is under each bunk, and what size suitcase or duffle fits?
A: There is storage space underneath each bunk for a standard-size suitcase or large duffle bag. We recommend players pack in a soft-sided duffle (rather than a hard-shell suitcase) since duffles compress and fit more flexibly under the bunks. A medium-to-large duffle is the most common choice.

Q: How do families pick up or drop off something to a player in the bunkhouse during the week — is the area secured?
A: Yes, Player Village is a secured area, which is why drop-offs and pickups are coordinated through coaches. The easiest option is to bring items to a game and hand them to your player there. If something can’t wait, contact your team’s coach and the player can meet you outside Player Village with coach supervision. This protects every player on property and keeps the bunkhouses secure.

Q: What happens if a player gets sick or homesick mid-week — is there a process to leave the bunkhouse, and what role does the family play?
A: Yes, all players must be signed out by their parents from Player Village with coach supervision. This can be done at the top of the hill above the players village entrance going through the security booth.

Q: When are Opening Ceremonies?
A: Opening Ceremonies are Opening Day at 5:30 p.m. (weather permitting) located on field #5.

Q: What happens during the Spirit Competition?

A: When teams are announced parents and families will cheer for their team. Costumes, Noise Makers (Only during Opening Ceremony, not allowed during Game Play), Powered Smoke & Bubbles are fine! Please note, throwing objects into or from the stands, confetti, and streamers are not allowed.

Q: What time do opening ceremonies begin, and how should families plan around that on Day 1?
A: Opening ceremonies kick off at 5:30 PM and are one of the most memorable nights of the week. Here’s how the evening typically flows: we start with a T-shirt toss, then honor our veterans and first responders. The player march around the village begins around 5:50 PM and wraps up around 6:30 PM, followed by the national anthem(s).

Q: What are the Skills Competitions?

A: Athletes will compete in a Turn 2, Home Run Derby, and outfield relay competitions. Ripken National Championships teams will compete in skills competitions on June 30th beginning at 6 PM

Q: When do I submit the participants for Skills Competitions?

A: Teams will submit their rosters for Skills competitions at team check-in on June 29th

Q: What equipment do players need to bring to the Skills Competition (catcher’s gear, glove, bat for the home run derby, etc.)?
A: For the Skills Competition, players need to bring a helmet and bat for the Home Run Derby, plus a glove for Turn 2 and outfield relay competitions. We recommend labeling all gear with the player’s name to prevent mix-ups during the busy competition.

Q: How is the Spirit Competition scored, and what tends to win in past years?
A: The Spirit Competition is judged by our staff, who walk the village and pick the most spirited team fanbase based on energy, creativity, and overall enthusiasm. Past winners have stood out with coordinated team colors, custom signs and banners, themed cheers, and lots of noise (cowbells, thundersticks, etc.). A few important rules: no confetti, no streamers, and no items thrown into the crowd or onto the field — these create cleanup and safety issues. Also note that noise makers are only allowed during opening ceremonies — they are not permitted during gameplay the rest of the week. Bring the energy, leave the mess at home!

Q: Where do families sit or stand for opening ceremonies and the parade — is there reserved spectator space per team?
A: Field 5 has a natural amphitheater layout where everyone gathers for opening ceremonies — it’s a beautiful spot. Spectator space is first-come, first-served — there is no reserved seating per team. We recommend arriving early to grab a good viewing spot, especially if you want to be near the front for the player march. Bring a stadium chair or blanket if you’d like extra comfort.

Q: Are smoke sticks, sparklers, or pyrotechnic items permitted for the parade or opening ceremonies? If so, where can teams buy them or do they need to bring them?
A: Smoke sticks and small handheld pyrotechnic items are permitted for the parade and opening ceremonies — please be extra cautious, mindful of children and elderly spectators around you, and respectful of the space. Teams typically purchase these items in advance and bring them along; they aren’t sold on property. As a reminder, confetti, streamers, and any items thrown into the crowd or onto the field are not permitted. Also note that noise makers and pyrotechnic items are only allowed during opening ceremonies — neither is permitted during gameplay the rest of the week. If you have questions about a specific item, please email [email protected] or call 607-432-7483 before your trip.

As directed by the New York State Health Department, for the safety of all our visitors, outside food is not permitted due to allergy concerns. Only if you are staying onsite at the All Star Hotel are you allowed to bring food inside your hotel room. If you have special dietary needs, please see the hostess at the Clubhouse Restaurant for a list of food we serve to accommodate your needs.

Team Coolers filled only with ice and bottled water are allowed in the dugouts and Player Village.

No gum or sunflower seeds are allowed on-site.

We have hydration stations throughout the park to fill up reusable water bottles throughout the week available to anyone.

No grilling or cookouts are allowed at any time on campus.Campus Map link

Q: Why is outside food not permitted at Cooperstown All Star Village?
A: As directed by the New York State Health Department, for the safety of all our visitors, outside food is not permitted on Cooperstown All Star Village property due to allergy concerns. The only exception is that families staying on-site at the All Star Village Hotel are allowed to bring food inside their hotel room. We have a full range of concessions throughout the property — including hot food, snacks, beverages, and coffee — to keep families well-fed throughout the week.

Q: What about team coolers — what’s allowed?
A: Team coolers filled only with ice and bottled water are allowed in the dugouts and the Player Village. No other food or drinks are permitted in team coolers. Each team receives an ice card good for 10 free bags of ice for their team cooler. We also have hydration stations throughout the park where anyone can refill reusable water bottles throughout the week.

Q: Are gum, sunflower seeds, or grilling allowed on campus?
A: No — gum and sunflower seeds are not allowed on-site, and no grilling or cookouts are permitted at any time on campus. These rules keep the fields, dugouts, and Player Village clean and safe for everyone. For complete on-campus rules and policies, visit https://cooperstown.com/about/rules-and-policies/.

Q: What if I have special dietary needs?
A: If you have special dietary needs, please see the hostess at our on-site restaurant for a list of food we serve to accommodate your needs — our Food & Beverage team works hard to make sure every player and family member is taken care of. We also strongly recommend emailing [email protected] or [email protected] ahead of your week with the player’s name, team, and specific dietary needs (nut, gluten, dairy, vegetarian, or eating-disorder-related accommodations) so we can prepare in advance.

Q: Can spectators bring outside food, drinks, or snacks into the park to the field areas?
A: No, outside food, drinks, and snacks are not permitted in the field areas. We have a full range of concessions on property, including hot food, snacks, beverages, and coffee throughout the day. This policy keeps the fields clean and supports our on-site food operations. Bottled water is allowed for personal hydration.

Q: Are coolers allowed at the fields, and if so, what size limit applies?
A: No, coolers are not allowed at the fields — for any size. We do offer concessions throughout the property with cold drinks, snacks, and full meals readily available. If you need ice for any reason, ask at the concessions stand. Teams: see the team-cooler ice card information below.

Q: Are players allowed to bring their own snacks and drinks into the bunkhouse?
A: No — outside snacks and drinks are not permitted in the bunkhouses. Water is the only exception. This policy keeps the bunkhouses clean and pest-free for everyone. Players have full access to meals and snacks at Player Dining throughout the week (hours below).

Q: How does the meal plan work for players and coaches — what is included, when are meals served, and what are the menu options?
A: Player Dining provides breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout the week — players and coaches will never need to leave property for meals. Hours are: Day 1: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM (dinner only, after check-in); Days 2–5: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM (full breakfast, lunch, dinner service); Day 6: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM (final dining day). The 2026 menu is still being finalized — we’ll post the full menu on https://cooperstown.com/experience/where-to-dine/ once it’s locked in. For dietary restrictions and allergies, see the next question.

Q: How does Cooperstown All Star Village handle food allergies and dietary restrictions (nut, gluten, dairy, vegetarian, eating disorder accommodations)?
A: We take food allergies and dietary restrictions seriously and accommodate a wide range of needs — including nut, gluten, dairy, vegetarian, and eating-disorder-related accommodations. Please email [email protected] or [email protected] ahead of your week with the player’s name, team, and specific dietary needs. Our Food & Beverage team will reach out directly to walk through how we’ll handle meals on-site. The earlier we know, the better we can prepare.

Q: Is ice provided for family coolers, and if so, where?
A: Ice is not provided for individual family coolers. However, every team receives an ice card good for 10 free bags of ice for their team cooler — please note that team coolers may only contain water. If you need additional ice during the week, it’s available at concessions.

Q: Who is the Official Photographer of Cooperstown All Star Village?
A: Glossy Finish

Q: How do I register for photography?
A: Photography is handled by Glossy Finish, our Official Photography Partner. Action photo packages for Ripken National Championships teams are available at https://www.glossyfinish.com/casv/

Q: Where do I direct photography questions?
A: Please get in touch with Glossy Finish at [email protected].

Q: What games will be broadcast on CBS Sports Network?

Friday, 7/3

• 10:00 AM ET: Round of 16 on CBS Sports Network
• 3:30 PM ET: Quarterfinal #2 on CBS Sports Network
• 9:00 PM ET: Quarterfinal #4 on CBS Sports Network

Saturday, 7/4

• 12:00 PM ET: Semifinal #1 on CBS Sports Network
• 7:00 PM ET: Championship Game on CBS Sports Network

Q: What games will be broadcast on GameChanger?

Friday, 7/3

• 12:30 PM ET: Quarterfinal #1 on GameChanger
• 6:00 PM ET: Quarterfinal #3 on GameChanger

Saturday, 7/4

• 3:00 PM ET: Semifinal #2 on GameChanger