Lacey Girl Will Play Ball In New Little League Series

LACEY, NJ — A Lacey girl will show her skills this June as part of a brand new prestigious baseball event that celebrates young female baseball players.

Samantha Carrieri, 12, is just one of 96 girls nationwide selected to participate in the 2024 Maria Pepe Little League Legacy Series. This new event takes place in Williamsport, PA from June 7 to 9.

The first-ever girls baseball event is run by Little League International as part of the organization's year-long Girls with Game 50 Celebration, according to a Little League news release.

"As one of the select few chosen for this unique opportunity, Samantha is honored and eager to represent her team and community on a national stage," Samantha's parents, Stephanie and Gregory Carrieri, told Patch.

The event was named in honor of Maria Pepe, a Hoboken native, who helped spearhead a movement in the 1970s that led to girls having the opportunity to participate in Little League Baseball programs.

"We believe Samantha's participation in the Legacy Series not only highlights her dedication and talent but also underscores the growing importance of promoting girls' involvement in traditionally male-dominated sports," the Carrieris said. "This event serves as a testament to the progress and inclusivity within the sporting world."

"I am so grateful that Little League will be hosting this event for girls who just love playing baseball and that I will be able to be there to support them," Pepe said in a release. "Playing baseball at Lamade Stadium is surely going to be a wonderful memory for those girls who will get to participate and I appreciate the Little League leadership, coaches, umpires, and support staff who are committed to making this event a success."