A major youth sporting event is headed to Lancaster this summer—Dream Fields will host the 2026 Junior Baseball State Tournament beginning July 9, bringing teams and visitors from across Virginia.

According to Dwight Forrester, vice president of facilities for Dream Fields, the selection is both significant and, in many ways, unprecedented.

“I don’t know the last time it’s been hosted on this side of Virginia, and I’m not aware of it ever being hosted in Lancaster,” he told the Lancaster Board of Supervisors.

Community Effort

Forrester credited the honor to the community, saying he believes Dream Fields was chosen because of “sweat equity and partnerships, fundraising efforts, and support from the county.”

“That highlights the facility that we have,” he said. Forrester said Dream Fields has had tremendous support for its fundraising efforts. “We couldn’t do it without your help and support,” he told the board. “The community that we live in is such a great community.”

Tournaments & Participation

The state tournament follows a run of other events at Dream Fields. The complex recently hosted the Wells Fargo Invitational and, prior to that, three separate tournaments that drew teams from southwest Virginia, Northern Virginia, and the Hampton Roads region.

Meanwhile, hometown teams have also seen notable achievements. Forrester pointed to the Senior Girls team going to the state tournament and competing at the Southeast Regional in Tennessee.

Then, the Junior boys excelled through the district and went to the state tournament. Forrester said they’ve never seen the type of participation they’re seeing now, as they had over 20 teams, eight divisions, and more than 200 kids just in the baseline Little League program.

Growth Despite Challenges

Milestones are being crossed despite mounting operational challenges. Maintaining the complex has become increasingly expensive, with basic equipment carrying hefty price tags.

“A mower to cut the grass at the ballpark is $80,000. It’s crazy stuff,” Forrester said.

At the same time, the organization is facing the need to address some infrastructure issues. The varsity field—used primarily by older players—has developed drainage and leveling issues.

“It’s very unlevel. It’s starting to hold water, inhibiting practice,” Forrester said, noting plans to regrade the field after the season.

Additional capital projects are also in the pipeline, including ADA-compliant restrooms and sewer system upgrades. Forrester said the organization is also discussing the possibility of constructing or renovating a space to serve as an indoor practice facility to accommodate teams during inclement weather. Currently, such space is rented when needed.

Nonetheless, Dream Fields continues to expand, and Forrester believes it’s not only benefiting the organization but also the community.

“The influx of people that we’re bringing into the county is just tremendous,” he said. “Events like this help not just us, but the entire county—the businesses, the Airbnbs, everyone.” He said he believes they’re filling up all the Airbnbs that the county has to offer.

Photo: M. Smith That same impact is expected to multiply with the state tournament, which will bring even larger crowds and extended stays.

Forrester said that broader mission is part of what makes hosting the state tournament so meaningful.

“What we do at the ballpark is we take pride in our facilities to grow for our community and for our kids,” he said.

Opening ceremonies for the state tournament will take place shortly after the Fourth of July holiday and are expected to require a lot of volunteers—another challenge Forrester expects the organization to handle in stride.

“This community never lets us down,” Forrester said.