10U Tigers Win NKCA Baseball’s Top Sportsmanship Honor

Kansas City, Mo. (July 14, 2025) – The 10U Tigers baseball team from Excelsior Springs has been awarded the 2025 Sportsmanship of the Year Award by NKCA Baseball, the largest youth baseball league in the Northland. The Tigers were selected by a vote of fellow teams, standing out among more than 140 teams across all divisions.

The Sportsmanship Award is NKCA Baseball’s most prestigious honor, recognizing teams and players who demonstrate exceptional character, respect, and integrity on and off the field. The 10U Tigers were chosen as this year’s winners for their age division, a reflection of the way they carry themselves while competing.

The award was presented during NKCA’s 2025 Sportsmanship Award Ceremonies held on Monday, July 14. The event featured appearances by special guests, including Andrew Richards of the Royals Amateur Development System and representatives from Whataburger and Enjoy the Game, with support from KCN Concessions and numerous individual donors.

The 10U Tigers have played in the NKCA League for three seasons and regularly compete in local tournaments. This year’s roster includes Celvin Holsey, Karter Lawson, Alex St. John, Silas Collins, Malcolm Holsey, Jack Thomas, Dylan Catron, Maddox Himbury, Hayden Ross, Blake Baldwin, Brayson Smith, and Tyson Marshall, under the guidance of coaches Brad Lawson, Luke Holsey, and Scott Collins.

Coach Lawson said the recognition means even more than wins or stats. “I think it shows me that the 12 boys on the team are learning qualities and morals that go far beyond winning and losing,” he said. “It also shows that not only do they enjoy baseball, but also have great hearts and are growing into some great young men. We coaches couldn’t be more proud of the boys and what they have accomplished on and off the field.”

Founded in 1947, NKCA Baseball offers a fun and safe environment that prioritizes player development. Games are held at Macken Park, AJ Wilson Sports Complex, and WaterWell Park. For more about the league, visit nkcabaseball.com.