BFA NATIONALS 2026 SPECIAL EVENTS

In addition to incredible experiences on the field, we are proud to host a lineup of exciting special events for all BFA Nationals participants from July 19–25, 2026.

Events and details subject to change. Please check back for updated information throughout the week. 

 

SUNDAY, JULY 19

BFA NATIONALS OFFICIAL KICKOFF

We’re thrilled to welcome all players, coaches, and parents to our official kickoff to BFA Nationals 2026. Join us for this casual, outdoor event featuring exciting activations, pin trading, food trucks, music, and more for the whole family to enjoy.

LOCATION: Clarence Hicks Sports Complex | Rockford, IL 

TIME: 5:30PM – 8PM

ATTIRE: Casual; gear representing your team is encouraged

PARTICIPANTS: All players, coaches, and families

COST: Free 

ADDITIONAL NOTES: Food and refreshments will be available for purchase on site. Parking is free, but limited; carpooling is encouraged.

 

COACH CHECK-IN

Before games start on Monday, July 20, ALL coaches and managers who will be present in the dugout (maximum 4) must check in during the official check-in desk to be cleared to coach. During this check-in process, coaches will also receive their official wristbands and tournament hats for their respective teams to wear on-field during games.

LOCATION: Clarence Hicks Sports Complex | Rockford, IL 

TIME: 6PM – 7:30PM

PARTICIPANTS: All coaches and managers 

REQUIRED ITEM(S): Government ID (driver’s license or passport)

ADDITIONAL NOTES: All coaches, managers, scorekeepers, etc. (whoever will be in the dugout with you up to 4 individuals who are not players) must check in with their own ID to verify they have completed the necessary paperwork and certifications to be eligible to coach. Questions? Please email volunteer coordinator, Nancy Sites at nancy@baseballforall.com today.

 

TUESDAY, JULY 21

PLAYER SWAG SESSION #1

All players are invited to come through swag line to get exclusive #BFANationals gifts, goodies, and more.

Important note: All teams must come together with at least one coach in order for the team to pick up swag. There will be one more opportunity to pick up swag on Wednesday, July 22. Limit one swag bag per player.  

LOCATION: TBA | Rockford, IL 

TIME: TBA

PARTICIPANTS: All players

COST: Free

 

WEDNESDAY, JULY 22

PLAYER SWAG SESSION #2

All players are invited to come through swag line to get exclusive #BFANationals gifts, goodies, and more.

Important note: All teams must come together with at least one coach in order for the team to pick up swag. Limit one swag bag per player. 

LOCATION: TBA | Rockford, IL 

TIME: TBA

PARTICIPANTS: All players

COST: Free

 

FRIDAY, JULY 24

BFA NATIONALS TOURNAMENT PARADE

We are proud to host our official on-field parade and welcome all players and coaches to participate in this beloved BFA Nationals tradition. During this special event, families are welcome to watch from the stands as all players parade in with their teams and gather with 1,000+ girls in baseball and coaches from across the globe; receive a limited-edition BFA Nationals gift; and get to hear from special guest speakers.

PARADE LOCATION: Beyer Stadium | Rockford, IL 

TIME: 9AM–10AM (Players and coaches expected to arrive no later than 8:15 AM to line up for the parade.)

ATTIRE: Full uniform (including BFA hat); cleats are not required. No flip flops, slides, or Crocs.

PARTICIPANTS: All players and coaches

COST: Free

IMPORTANT NOTE: Parking is limited; carpooling is highly encouraged.

 

SATURDAY, JULY 25

MEDAL CEREMONIES

All medals for first, second, and third place will be awarded to winning teams in Majors and Minors divisions, when applicable. Two additional BFA Nationals medal categories will also be handed out during these ceremonies.

Maybelle Blair Award

A medal awarded to all participants in our youngest division that honors Maybelle Blair, a member of the All-American Girls’ Professional Baseball League. This award celebrates her absolute joy and tireless commitment to growing the game for girls in baseball. 

Shirley “Hustle” Burkovich Award

A medal awarded to one team in each division that pays tribute to the late Shirley Burkovich, a member of the All-American Girls’ Professional Baseball League and a long-time advocate for girls in baseball. This medal is awarded to the team who demonstrates the most hustle, heart, and sportsmanship throughout the tournament. 

LOCATION: TBA

TIME: Immediately following each medal game

PARTICIPANTS: Winning teams

COST: Free