KINGMAN — The Kingman Little League opened its 2026 season preparations this week, getting a head start on even the pros as roughly 150 young players arrived at Southside Park for the first of two evaluation days.
Players are required to attend only one session, where each is assigned a number rather than identified by name. Coaches use those numbers to record performance notes before conducting a blind draft.
Evaluations began with the youngest division, where players rotated through hitting, running, and fielding drills. Coaches observed batting mechanics, footwork out of the batter’s box, and speed to first base. Fielding sessions followed, giving players a chance to demonstrate glove work and throwing ability.
While evaluations continued, Colorado River Region Administrator Lyndsey Stinson spoke about the broader purpose of Little League.
“Little League is about creating individuals,” she said. “Individuals who are successful in life, navigating challenges, navigating loss, navigating wins, being humble. It’s very important that we’re teaching our children in our community to be good citizens and good humans by teamwork, mentorship, friendship — all of the things, including fun — and that’s what Little League’s about.”
Stinson emphasized the essential role of volunteers in keeping the nonprofit league running.
“Kingman has roughly 450 to 550 players registered, and unfortunately, we have maybe 50 volunteers,” she said. “However, with the amazing community we have here, they have been able to take every player off the wait list and put them on a team.”
The league is also seeking additional umpires. Those interested can begin by visiting LittleLeague.org.
“There is an opportunity to do umpiring,” Stinson added. “We have an umpire chief here in Kingman. His name is Kevin Schoonover, and he will absolutely take any help he can get.”
With evaluations wrapped up for the evening, young players — and the many volunteers who kept the process moving — headed home tired but eager to learn which team they’ll join for the upcoming season.
