Hammond, Indiana is proud to be the host for the 2017 Cal Ripken 10-Year-Old World Series. Built in 2005 by the City of Hammond with support from the Hammond Optimist Club, the Hammond Optimist Sports Complex features three baseball and two softball fields. The complex is home to Hammond Optimist Youth Sports, which serves over 500 Hammond youth each season playing Cal Ripken Baseball, Base Ruth Baseball and Babe Ruth Softball.

Hammond, located in Lake County Indiana and as suburb of Chicago, Illinois is blessed to be located on the southern most shore of Lake Michigan. Until fairly recently, the area was primarily an industrial area but recently many family friendly and ecologically appropriate improvements have been made to Hammond’s lakefront property with an aim towards preservation as well as enjoyment. The brand new pavilion on Wolf Lake not only beautifies the shores, but provides entertainment and cultural opportunities for Hammond’s families year round. The Lakeshore Park and Hammond Marina provide additional outdoor recreational activities for Hammond families and visitors. You can also visit the well known Albanese Candy Factory in Merrillville, Indiana and the famous Fair Oak Farms and restaurant in Fair Oaks, Indiana. For the outdoor enthusiast, visit one of the many parks in Hammond including the Gibson Woods Nature Preserve and Environmental Awareness Center. Lost Marsh Golf Course in Hammond is a shining example of brown-field reclamation, habitat restoration, and a challenging golfing experience. With driving range facilities, pro-shop and lounge, Lost Marsh is an excellent facility at an affordable price. For outdoor enthusiast, Hammond is also home to a Cabela’s store with unique wildlife displays from our region.

There are countless activities throughout Indiana’s Calumet Region to the city of Chicago, Illinois. Don’t miss out visiting the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and Park, where you can hike the sand dunes and explore the natural habitat unique to our area of Lake Michigan. Spend a day in Chicago visiting one of the many historical sites or museums. Whatever you are looking to do you can find out the information at the Lake County Visitor Center located next to the World Series Marriott Hotel complex. Conveniently located in the middle of it all, the city of Hammond, Indiana welcomes you and your family to our home for a fun filled and exciting tournament time.

2017 Cal Ripken 10-Year-Old World Series Awards