Pack up the Cracker Jacks and take us out to the ball game, because Pennsylvania's own Philadelphia Phillies are headed to the 2022 World Series! Everyone already knows that baseball has long been coined "America's Pastime," but did you know that the World Series itself is rooted in Pennsylvania history?
Pop Quiz:
Which Pennsylvania team played in the very first World Series in 1903?
- Philadelphia Phillies
- Pittsburgh Pirates
- Harrisburg Senators
If you chose B, you're correct!
Marking the end of hostilities between the National League and the newly formed American League, that year the Pirates matched up against the Boston Americans. About 100,000 people attended, and each player made $1,000 to play.
Back then, the series consisted of nine games (compared to the current best of seven), and unfortunately the Boston Americans beat the Pirates five to three. Here's hoping that our hometown team has better luck in 2022!
For younger players, the Little League—or the international baseball organization for children and teenagers—began in 1939 in Williamsport, PA. Originally, the league was only for boys ages 8 to 12, and expanded to include girls in 1974. Now, kids as old as 18 can play.
The six-inning games are played on fields that are two-thirds the size of a professional baseball diamond. Teams play about 15 games per season, after which the winners meet for the annual World Series in Williamsport.
The first Little League World Series was held in 1947, and the yearly event generates about $40 million for the local economy!
Now that you've learned a bit more about the history of baseball (we are the PA Department of Education, after all!), think about how your school community can find fun ways to celebrate, learn, and cheer on the Phillies.
Some ideas could include:
- Make your own mascot – have students draw and write a story about the mascot they'd create for their imaginary team
- Spirit days – encourage students and faculty to wear their favorite team gear or bring in an item for Show and Tell
- Classroom World Series – engage in a friendly competition between classes on assignments. Create a point system, and the team with the best score overall wins!
- More ideas and activities can be found on the We Are Teachers website.
At the end of the day, just like in team sports, have fun! Let's go Phils!