Baseball Week is part of Haarlem’s cultural heritage. The history of Haarlem Baseball Week began when a group of enthusiastic baseball players and fans dreamed of organizing an international tournament that would bring together the best national teams and talents. In 1961, this dream became a reality when the very first Haarlem Baseball Week was held. This tournament, then still played at the Badmintonpad, was a huge success, featuring teams from various countries and a large crowd of supporters.
Legendary moments
Starting with the second edition, the tournament was held at the Pim Mullierstadion in Haarlem. Over the decades that followed, Haarlem Baseball Week produced countless legendary moments. The tournament was—and remains—a breeding ground for talent and has produced some of the biggest names in the baseball world. Many participants in Haarlem Baseball Week have gone on to become professionals in the two largest baseball leagues in the world: Major League Baseball and the Nippon Professional Baseball League.
The participation of unique teams such as “the Sullivans” from Grand Rapids, Michigan—who combined high-level baseball with entertainment—was also groundbreaking in the Netherlands. In addition to the participating teams, the spectators are also an important part of the shared memory. The fans’ spirited and enthusiastic attitude creates a unifying and uplifting experience for everyone involved.
Team Kingdom of the Netherlands has won the tournament five times (2004, 2006, 2010, 2016, and 2022).
