​RAPID CITY, S.D. (KELO) — Teams from Rapid City, Sioux Falls, Brandon, Pierre, and Pine Ridge are chasing first place at Collins Field in Rapid City as the state Little League tournament gets underway. Organizers and participants alike are excited to showcase the depth of talent across South Dakota as six teams convene for a high-stakes competition that promises competitive games, friendly rivalries, and a chance to advance to regional play.
Canyon Lake Little League President Ben Kading expressed enthusiasm about hosting this expanded event. “We are really excited to host; we’ve got a six-team tournament this year. Teams from across the state. Yeah, it’s a ton of work for sure; it takes a lot of volunteers. We’ve got a really robust board and a great group of volunteers, so that’s been really crucial,” Kading said, underscoring the collaborative effort required to pull off the tournament successfully. The behind-the-scenes work—from planning and coordination to volunteer shifts and field maintenance—has been essential in delivering a smooth and enjoyable experience for players, families, and fans.
The Oglala Lakota Little League is making a return to the tournament after 26 years without a program. Coach Ryan Ross reflected on the significance of the comeback and the growth of the team. “I remember how it was like when I was a kid coming to this tournament, and we never really made it very far. You know, we’d be two and out, but these kids—it’s amazing to see these 14 kids that we have together, how they just gelled so quickly. Chemistry with this team is a big thing. I’m excited for what our kids can do, and just seeing them be able to get out there and get it going on the field,” Ross said. The resurgence of the Oglala Lakota program is a welcome addition, with hopes high that the team can compete at a regional level and inspire younger players within the community.
Temperatures this week are a notable challenge, with forecasts predicting heat that could push above 100 degrees on some days. Tournament organizers are exploring strategies to protect players and enhance fan comfort. “We’re looking at different options. Maybe moving the game times around so we can try to gauge when that hottest point of the day is going to be and when we can move those games through for player safety and fan comfort as well,” Kading explained. The planning aims to balance the intensity of competition with the well-being of everyone on site, including adjusting schedules and ensuring access to hydration and shade.
Each of the six participating teams is determined to prove they belong on the field and to represent South Dakota with pride when regional play arrives. A player-centered perspective captures the excitement: “Super excited; you should see the look on the kids’ faces when they got their jerseys right here. It’s just amazing. And we’re looking to make some noise here too. We’re not just coming here to just be happy to be here. We’re coming to make some noise,” Ross remarked, highlighting the confidence and anticipation fueling the players and coaches as the team’s uniforms symbolically mark a new chapter in their season.
As the State Little League tournament progresses through the week, teams will compete for the championship, culminating in a title match this Sunday. Community members, families, and fans will have opportunities to witness strong pitching, solid defense, and improved batting as youth players demonstrate the fruits of early-season practice, teamwork, and dedication. Oklahoma, Texas, and other regional teams will take note of the level of play as South Dakota’s best represent their state on this important stage.
Official results, updates, and highlights will be available throughout the tournament via KELOLAND and KELO’s streaming options, with in-depth coverage, schedules, and post-game analysis to help fans stay connected to the action. For more information and the latest news, continue to visit KELOLAND.com, where local sports reporting highlights the efforts of players, families, and volunteers who make events like this possible. This material is brought to you by Nexstar Media, Inc., and remains the property of the publisher.