An editorial in the Oct. 9 print edition

The State Amateur Baseball Tournament, held over three weekends in Shakopee and Chaska, was considered a rousing success, which can be attributed to literally hundreds of people who liberally gave of their time, money and sweat.

But we’re not just talking about people from the Shakopee area working for the past year or two — we mean folks going back a couple of decades as well.The foundation of the success of the tournament — which started with the two communities being named as hosts for 2008 — was superior baseball facilities.

Almost a quarter-century ago, a small group of baseball devotees in Shakopee got together to plan their ultimate dream: A superb baseball field that could someday be host to the state amateur baseball tournament.

That was the beginning of taking a field at Tahpah Park, established by the Shakopee Jaycees, and transforming it into what became Joe Schleper Stadium — if not the finest, one of the best baseball facilities in the state of Minnesota.

The dream park became a reality, and the dream of the core group of baseball lovers also became a reality with Shakopee being a co-host to the state the tournament the last three weekends in August — the first time the event had been here in 60 years.

To play host to such a tournament has mind-boggling responsibilities. There were literally hundreds of things that had to be addressed or tended to — and not just over a single weekend like most tournaments, but three consecutive weekends.

When the baseball folks asked for volunteers, they were not disappointed, as more than 350 people stepped forward to help out before, during, and after the three-weekend event, which drew 48 teams to the two communities at Joe Schleper Stadium and Athletic Park in Chaska.

Not only does did this prestigious tournament bring pride to our local communities, it brought lots of people — and their dollars. Those dollars went to restaurants, lodging places, gas stations and other local retailers, and funds earned will go to the amateur baseball programs in both communities.

Holding the tournament in the communities would not be possible without the scores of volunteers, and huge support from businesses, local governments and community-oriented service organizations (such as the Jaycees, Lions Club, Knights of Columbus, American Legion, the VFW, etc.).

Kudos to all involved, particularly those whose dream some 24 years ago came true. It shows that a small community can accomplish seemingly impossible goals if folks get together and roll up their sleeves and work hard.