PIAA Spring Sports Championships Festival Returns For Second Year
State College, PA – June 10, 2024 – Happy Valley is gearing up to provide an unforgettable experience for more than 1,000 high-school student athletes, coaches and athletic administrators when it hosts the PIAA Spring Sport Championships Festival June 13-15. This marks the second year of the four-year commitment with the PIAA.
"As year two commences, the Happy Valley Sports & Entertainment Alliance, in collaboration with Penn State University and Centre County, proudly announces the return of the PIAA Spring Sport Championships Festival,” said HVSEA Executive Director Eric Engelbarts. “Following the success of the inaugural event, we eagerly anticipate building upon that momentum, showcasing the warmth and camaraderie that define Happy Valley."
Over the course of three days, 36 high schools from across Pennsylvania will compete for state championships in five different sports: baseball, softball, boys’ lacrosse; girls’ lacrosse; and boys’ volleyball.
“As we enter the second year of our Spring Sports Festival, PIAA would like to thank the Happy Valley Sports & Entertainment Alliance, Penn State Athletics and the State College Spikes, for their assistance and cooperation,” said PIAA Executive Director Dr. Robert A. Lombardi. “We had a great start last year and this year’s matchups and schools will further highlight the highest levels of interscholastic athletic competition. We are anxiously awaiting this week’s championships.”
Engelbarts said the consolidated format would enhance the camaraderie among participants, creating a vibrant and electric atmosphere throughout the tournament.
“We invite the Centre County community and regional sports fans to support these athletes by attending the games and matches throughout the weekend,” he said.
Penn State University and Happy Valley will continue to host the PIAA Spring Sport Championships Festival through 2026.
“This long-term commitment underscores the region's dedication to being a premier destination for marquee events and tournaments,” Engelbarts said. “The facilities at Penn State provide a perfect backdrop for the championships, offering top-notch venues for both players and spectators.” Engelbart’s said as the festival weekend approaches, anticipation is building.
“The athletes have trained hard all year, and now have the opportunity to showcase their skills on a state-wide stage,” he said. “The community's support will play a crucial role in making this event memorable for everyone involved. Happy Valley is ready to celebrate the spirit of high school sports and create lasting memories for all participants.”
PIAA Spring Sport Championships Festival schedule:
PIAA Baseball Championships (June 13-14) – Medlar Field at Lubrano Park: Three games per day showcasing teams from each classification (1A, 2A, 3A, 4A, 5A, and 6A).
PIAA Softball Championships (June 13-14) – Beard Field: Three games per day will feature teams from each classification (1A, 2A, 3A, 4A, 5A, and 6A).
PIAA Boys’ Lacrosse Championships (June 15) – Panzer Stadium: The best teams in the 2A and 3A classifications battle it out in two thrilling championship matches.
PIAA Girls’ Lacrosse Championships (June 15) – Panzer Stadium: The top teams in the 2A and 3A classifications compete in two exciting championship games.
PIAA Boys’ Volleyball Championships (June 15) – Rec Hall: Two matches will determine the champions in the 2A and 3A classifications.
For more information about the event, including schedules and ticketing details, visit www.piaa.org.
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