North Idaho Lakers thank community after hosting state championship

SANDPOINT — The North Idaho Lakers Baseball Organization was honored to host the 2026 Idaho American Legion Baseball State Championship at the newly renovated War Memorial Field and Pine Street Field from July 17–20.

After four days of competition, the Lewis Clark Bucs captured the 2026 Idaho American Legion Baseball State Championship, completing the tournament undefeated. The Orofino Merchants earned Runner-Up honors after an impressive run through the loser's bracket.

Final Tournament Standings:

Lewis Clark Bucs (3-0) - State Champions

Orofino Merchants (3-2) - Runner-Up

Idaho Falls Tigers Legion B (2-2, T-3rd)

Nampa Legion Warriors (2-2, T-3rd)

Minico Storm 14U (1-2, T-5th)

North Idaho Lakers Post 15 (1-2, T-5th)

Prairie Cardinals White (0-2)

While the championship was decided on the field, the success of the tournament was made possible through the efforts of many dedicated individuals behind the scenes.

The North Idaho Lakers Baseball organization extends its sincere appreciation to the Idaho American Legion Baseball leadership, including the State Chairman, Area Directors and District Directors, for their continued guidance and support of one of Idaho's premier youth baseball programs.

A special thank you is also extended to our District 1 Director, Tim Shaw, and Area A Director, Morris Bently, whose presence throughout the entire tournament demonstrated outstanding leadership and an unwavering commitment to American Legion Baseball.

The tournament would not have been possible without the professionalism and dedication of the tournament's umpiring crews. Their outstanding officiating throughout the weekend drew praise from players, coaches, and spectators alike and helped ensure a first-class championship experience.

The organization also wishes to recognize its many volunteers, whose countless hours of planning and service - from field preparation and scorekeeping to concessions, hospitality, tournament operations and opening ceremonies - helped make the event a tremendous success.

The North Idaho Lakers would also like to recognize Marigold Bistro for catering the State Championship Coaches and Players Banquet. We also extend our sincere appreciation to Jupiter Jane Travelling Café for providing food truck service throughout the championship. 

We are equally grateful to our generous sponsors whose support made the tournament possible:

Aqua Springs, Boden Architecture, Dubs, Edward Jones, Elite Tires, Encoder, Finan McDonald, Glahe, Gustafson Contractors, H&S Unlimited, IFG, Litehouse, North Idaho Spas, North Idaho Title, North Summit Youth Group, Panhandle Escrow, PureWest, Quayle Land Use, Sandpoint Lions Club, Selkirk Design, Sweet Lou's, Wildass Auctioneer, Lightning Lube, Peak Sand & Gravel, Spielman LLC, and Jack & Mary Jo Ambrosiani.

Their investment in local youth athletics continues to strengthen our community and provides opportunities for young athletes to compete at the highest level.

Beyond the excitement on the diamond, the tournament provided a meaningful boost to the local economy. Over the course of the championship weekend, an estimated 200 to 300 players, coaches, parents, and fans traveled to Sandpoint from across Idaho. Visitors stayed in local hotels, dined at area restaurants, shopped at local businesses, purchased fuel and enjoyed many of the recreational opportunities our community has to offer. 

Events like the Idaho American Legion Baseball State Championship not only showcase the outstanding baseball facilities and hospitality of North Idaho but also provide a welcome economic benefit to local businesses.

The North Idaho Lakers Baseball Organization extends its heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped make this championship possible. From the Idaho American Legion Baseball leadership, Area and District Directors, and dedicated umpiring crews to our volunteers, sponsors, community partners, and the many visiting teams and families, this tournament was truly a collaborative effort. 

The overwhelmingly positive feedback received throughout the weekend is a testament to what can be accomplished when a community comes together in support of our young athletes. We are proud to have hosted the 2026 Idaho American Legion Baseball State Championship and look forward to welcoming teams back to Sandpoint in the future.