Little League® International and the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) in North Central Pa. announced the dedication of the newly-built Player Wellness Center inside the Dr. Creighton J. Hale International Grove on the Little League International Complex.
The new Player Wellness Center will serve as the medical hub for all players, coaches, and managers during their stay at the Little League Baseball® World Series each August.
“We are thrilled to open this remarkable new facility and look forward to the important care and expertise that the staff at UPMC will provide our World Series participants this August and during future Little League World Series,” said Stephen D. Keener, Little League President and CEO. “On behalf of everyone at Little League International, we are thankful to all those who have played a part in making this facility possible and we greatly appreciate the medical services and support that UPMC has provided us over the years.”
Designed as an on-site medical clinic, the new Player Wellness Center is available 24/7 to the players, coaches, and managers during their time in Williamsport and features a waiting room, two exam rooms, three patient rooms, and an additional patient room fully outfitted with a private bathroom and overnight sleeping accommodations in case of the need for medical isolation. The entire facility is also ADA accessible and provides easy access for emergency personnel in the event of an emergency transport situation. The center was built in the summer of 2020 to replace the former Little League Infirmary with a modern medical facility in order to accommodate the expansion of the Little League Baseball World Series from 16 teams to 20 teams, starting with the 2022 event.
“We’re proud of our long-standing partnership with Little League International and this new center is one of many projects we’ve collaborated on over the years,” said Steve Johnson, president, UPMC in North Central Pa. “Every year, hundreds of players and thousands of fans and family members from across the U.S. and around the world come to South Williamsport to celebrate the talent and sportsmanship of some the world’s best young athletes. Our physicians, trainers, nurses, EMS teams, and staff not only provide care in the wellness center, but also are in the dugouts and at other locations at the complex supporting Little League International with necessary health care resources. We’re working together to ensure everyone involved with these events is safe and can enjoy their time in the region.”
Each summer, UPMC in North Central Pa. provides tremendous support to Little League and the Little League Baseball World Series, including medical services for fans and visitors, exclusive medical care to World Series participants, and additional staffing and services to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all who attend.