TORRINGTON – Registration is open now for the 2025 Torrington Little League season. Approximately 250 kids ages four through 12-year-olds will be hitting the fields soon in four divisions including T-Ball for the youngest players looking for a fun introduction to baseball, Pitching Machine for players ready to learn the fundamentals, Coach Pitch/Machine Pitch and Player Pitch Minors for players ready to get more serious about their skill and Majors for players who successfully tryout for advanced play. 

The league also offers a robust Challenger Division for players with physical or intellectual challenges who may not find the other divisions a good fit. Steven and Danielle Eichenberger coach the team; Danielle is well-equipped as she is special education teacher in the Goshen County School District, and together the Eichenbergers have created a safe and fun environment for all players to experience baseball. Players from the Majors division even get in on the fun, helping the Challenger players by helping them hit the ball and run the bases with them when needed.

Torrington Little League has seen incredible success in both in-league and state competition over the past few years. Within the city league, a different team has won the championship each of the last four years which is a testament to the high level of play and the balance of the teams. On a state level, the 2022 Torrington 8-10-year-old all-star team shut out Laramie to earn its first state title since 1995. In 2023, both the 8-10-year-old team and the 11-12-year-old teams won state titles. It was the first state championship win for the 11-12-year-old team since 1995 and the win qualified the team to play in San Bernardino, California for the Little League West Regional Tournament. The Torrington wins in 2023 was just the sixth time since 2005 where there were two championship teams from the same town. Last year, the 11-12-year-old team won the state title again by defeating Rock Springs and returned to the Little League West Regionals in California. The 8-10-year-old team also saw success, ultimately coming in second to Douglas in the state championship game. The championship wins represent 31 Torrington Little Leaguers who have won state championships, with eight being three-time state champions which is a city record. 2025 coaches are optimistic for another successful season this year. 

While winning is a significant motivator in sports, Torrington Little League parents and coaches see the benefits for all children to participate in team sports regardless of skill. Team sports can help children learn teamwork, discipline, and a love for physical activity. Lonna Schmick recently shared how Little League has provided a space for both athletic and personal growth for her player. 

“Little League Baseball has been a transformative journey for my nephew since he came to live with us 6 years ago after a family tragedy. It has not only improved his coordination and athletic skills but also instilled in him the values of teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship. Watching him grow into a confident and kind-hearted young man has been amazing, and baseball has been a big part of that growth,” Schmick said.  

Nichole Matthews says she has also seen an impact on her son Colin.

“I have seen so much growth in Colin, not just in his skills with baseball but in his confidence and the friendships he has made,” Matthews said. 

Parents frequently highlight the impact the volunteers have had on their players, from the coaches who provide hands-on guidance to the board who seamlessly organizes each season and provides additional opportunities for the payers including the MLB Pitch, Hit, and Run competition and Little League Night with the Western Nebraska Pioneers. Torrington will even be hosting Districts this summer, another opportunity to have many players participate in advanced play. Matthews says the volunteers are a significant factor in the success of each player and the teams, saying of her son’s experience.

“All of the Little League coaches are volunteer and have children playing. Many of these kids come in at every skill level and it is up to these coaches to teach them the basics and bring them together as a team. I can say each one Colin has had over his years in Little League, they have done just that which is pretty awesome,” Matthews explained. 

Many are aware of recent challenges related to the mismanagement of Little League funds by the former treasurer, reported by the Telegram last week. The current board wants to assure the Little League community the issue was swiftly addressed and new measures have been implemented to safeguard the league for the 2025 season and future seasons. 

“We are committed to the kids and to Torrington Little League. We want nothing else than to help the program. We love the sport and what it builds in the kids with community support,” Rachel Gurney, Little League Board Secretary, said.

Registration for the 2025 season is open now through April, and the board encourages all interested families to sign up early. Financial assistance is available through the Hardship Assistance Program, ensuring every child has a chance to participate, regardless of financial circumstances.

With a rich history of success, a dedicated group of volunteers, and a passionate community behind it, Torrington Little League is ready to step up to the plate for another incredible season. Here’s to a year filled with teamwork, dedication, and unforgettable moments on the field.