75 Years Strong
Thurmont Little League Built on Community and Tradition
by Alisha Yocum
Traditions have stood the test of time at Thurmont Little League (TLL). On April 3, the league celebrated its 75th season, honoring decades of community, teamwork, and tradition.
Historical images show that the raising of the flag has long been a part of Opening Day ceremonies, a tradition that continues today. This year, Cub Scout Pack 270 and Troop 77 carried on that legacy by presenting the colors during the event.
Opening Day wouldn’t be complete without the reciting of the Little League Pledge, led by District 2 Administrator Marty McNeil, along with the Volunteer Pledge, led by Sheriff Chuck Jenkins.
A highlight of the ceremony was the ceremonial first pitch, thrown by PJ Nicholson, owner of PJ’s Roofing, in recognition of his years of dedication to the league. “His commitment to the league and our community has made a lasting impact, and we are incredibly grateful for everything he has done for Thurmont Little League,” said Brian Mo, who served as master of ceremonies. Nicholson’s contributions have previously been honored with a field being named after him at the TLL complex.
Keilholtz Trucking was also recognized as the league’s longest-standing sponsor, with three generations of family support—a true testament to the community’s lasting commitment to the program.
The ceremony continued with the singing of the National Anthem by three TLL alumni: James Clements, Evan Laird, and Allie Bryant.
According to Thurmont Mayor Kinnaird, the league began in 1951 on a field by the Cannon Shoe Co. Factory on Apples Church Road before eventually moving to its current location at 275 Westview Drive.
Many TLL alumni were in attendance and recognized during the ceremony, including Ed Schildt, whose family represents four generations of involvement in the league.
Schildt’s father coached from 1968 to 2000, while Ed and his brother Blaine Sr. both played as children and continue to contribute as coaches. Today, their children—and even grandchildren—carry on the family tradition as players, coaches, and volunteers.
David Riffle, whose family now has generations involved with TLL as well, says he played on the old field by the shoe factory and then moved to the new field during his tenure at Senior League. “I remember spending entire Saturdays helping build the new field,” he said.
Ed Schildt recalls similar memories. “We had to hand rake it and shovel off the rocks to build the fields. It was really special for us when the fields grew grass, and a concession stand was added,” he said.
For Blaine Young Jr., who now serves on the TLL Board as Umpire-in-Chief, the memories are just as meaningful. “I have so many great memories, but one that stands out is my first year playing on the TLL Minor Bombers. I made lifelong friends, and I remember a teammate catching a line drive at first base bare-handed after his glove fell off. I thought that was the coolest thing ever.”
To commemorate the 75th season, each player received a pack of Topps baseball cards, which is also celebrating its 75th anniversary.
Reflecting on the milestone, Ed Schildt summed up the spirit of Thurmont Little League: “Families can make memories on these fields that never go away. They stay with you for the rest of your life.”
Thurmont Little League (TLL) players and coaches gather on the new W Raising the flag on opening day in 1953. Photos Courtesy of Mayor Kinnaird/Thurmontimmages.com
Thurmont Little League (TLL) players and coaches gather on the new Westview Drive field—still proudly owned and operated by TLL today.
Photos Courtesy of Mayor Kinnaird/Thurmontimmages.com
Lucas Swartz makes a determined push for first base during Opening Day action Photos by Reaver Photography
Teammates from the Worm Burners pause for a picture during their game on Opening Day. Photos by Reaver Photography
Kyla Derr gets ready to take a swing during Opening Day games. Photos by Reaver Photography
Three Generations of the Riffle Family who have played for TLL.
The Schildt Family has had four generations of involvement in TLL.
