GoRockford, Baseball For All, and the Rockford Park District are proud to announce that the Rockford region will host the 11th annual Baseball For All (BFA) Nationals July 19–25, 2026, during the same week as the WBSC Women’s Baseball World Cup group stage. This historic alignment will make Rockford the epicenter of women’s and girls’ baseball, bringing together the sport’s future and its elite international players in one community at the same time.

Baseball For All is a national nonprofit providing opportunities for girls to play, coach, and lead in baseball. BFA Nationals is the largest girls’ baseball tournament in the country.

A Groundbreaking Week for Baseball – in Rockford!

Baseball For All Nationals is expected to welcome over 800 players and coaches from across the U.S., Canada, Australia, and beyond. Girls ages six to 18 will have the opportunity to play at top-tier sports facilities in Rockford, as well as at the historic Beyer Stadium, where the beloved Rockford Peaches of the original All-American Girls’ Professional Baseball League played. This field is also the home base of the International Women’s Baseball Center.

While youth teams compete at venues across the community, the Women’s Baseball World Cup group stage will bring national teams from around the globe to Rivets Stadium from July 22–27, marking only the second time the event has been played in the United States. The BFA tournament was held in Rockford in 2017 and again in 2018 before rotating to other communities across the nation.

At the same time, the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL) Players Association is holding its 2026 Reunion in Rockford, IL, from July 22-26, coinciding with Rockford's hosting of the Women's Baseball World Cup group stage. 

Together, these three events will showcase the entire spectrum of women’s and girls’ baseball — from young athletes chasing their dreams to world-class women representing their countries and players who pioneered the game.

Justine Siegal, PhD, Founder, Baseball For All, noted, “We’re thrilled to bring Baseball For All Nationals back to Rockford and celebrate three generations of baseball players: the girls playing at BFA Nationals, the players competing at the WBSC World Cup Qualifiers, and the women from the AAGPBL who paved the way for us all. This unique opportunity allows our players to compete and be inspired by the best women in the world, reminding them that baseball is truly a game for everyone.”

“As title sponsor, GoRockford is thrilled to welcome Baseball For All Nationals to Rockford. Hosting this tournament during the same week as the Women’s Baseball World Cup is a perfect alignment of purpose. It highlights our commitment to gender equity in sports, supports the next generation of female players, and elevates Rockford’s national reputation in sports tourism,” said John Groh, President & CEO, GoRockford.

Commenting on the historic nature of the three events happening concurrently, Kat Williams, PhD, CEO, International Women’s Baseball Center, said, “This will be a powerful week for baseball. From young girls picking up bats and gloves to the best women in the world taking the field, Rockford will shine as a city that honors the past, celebrates the present, and inspires the future of women in baseball.”

Looking forward to welcoming these athletes and fans, Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara said, “Rockford is honored to host three extraordinary events focused on women’s and girls’ baseball. From welcoming young athletes chasing their dreams to celebrating international players at the highest level, this week will showcase the rich history and bright future of the sport.”

“The Rockford Park District is proud to host the nation’s largest girls’ baseball tournament. Our world-class facilities provide the ideal stage for these exceptional female athletes to showcase their talents and advance the sport's future,” said Derek Papich, manager of Sportscore Complexes.”

Beyond the Games

  • Special Events: Players and families can expect memorable experiences, including opening ceremonies, skills clinics, and opportunities to connect with Women’s Baseball World Cup athletes.
  • Stay-to-Play Model: Following BFA tradition, the Nationals will operate under a stay-to-play model, with designated hotel partners to be announced in early 2026, ensuring convenience and community for all visiting teams.
  • Legacy of Women’s Baseball: As the home of the historic Rockford Peaches and the home of the International Women’s Baseball Center, Rockford continues its role as a beacon for women in the sport — celebrating history while building the future.

About Baseball For All

Baseball For All is a national nonprofit providing opportunities for girls to play, coach, and lead in baseball. Its annual BFA Nationals tournament is the largest girls’ baseball tournament in the country, drawing teams from across the United States, Canada, and internationally, and fosters competition, builds community, and helps to grow the game for girls in baseball. www.baseballforall.com

About GoRockford

GoRockford is the official destination marketing and management organization for the City of Rockford and Winnebago County. The organization is responsible for promoting the Rockford region as an attractive travel destination and enhancing its public image as a dynamic place to live and work. Through the impact of travel, GoRockford enhances the regional economy and offers opportunities for residents in our communities.