From August 3 to 10, Taichung Municipal Zhongshan Junior High School will travel to the United States to compete in the 2025 Junior League Baseball World Series. In addition, a team composed of students from Zhongshan, Xiangshang, Xiyuan, and Fengyang Junior High Schools will participate in the 2025 PONY World Series from August 8 to 13, also in the United States. On July 22, at Wanshou Baseball Stadium, Director Chiang Wei-min of the Education Bureau presented the city flag—symbolizing honor and responsibility—to both teams. He also awarded over NT$2.32 million in travel subsidies to support their participation abroad and encouraged the young athletes to uphold a spirit of perseverance and strive for outstanding achievements.
On behalf of Mayor Lu Shiow-yen, Director Chiang Wei-min offered his encouragement to the coaches and players embarking on their international journey, hoping that they would bravely pursue their dreams and bring honor to the country on the world stage. Director Chiang noted that Zhongshan Junior High School has long been dedicated to cultivating its baseball players. Under the professional guidance of its coaching team, the players have demonstrated consistent performance and remarkable achievements—clinching championships at both the MAXE Cup and the LLB Asia-Pacific Region Tournament this year. The second team, composed of players from Zhongshan, Xiangshang, Xiyuan, and Fengyang Junior High Schools, also stood out in the national Sunny Bank Cup, securing the right to represent Taiwan in the PONY Asia-Pacific Zone Championships. They also showcased their impressive skills by defeating Japan 9–0 in the Indonesia tournament, earning their ticket to the World Series in the United States.
Director Chiang noted that earning the right to represent Taiwan in both prestigious tournaments is the result of the athletes’ long-term dedication to training, teamwork, and perseverance. He also acknowledged the tireless efforts of the coaching staff, as well as the steadfast support and encouragement from parents, schools, and various sectors of society, which have enabled the players to focus wholeheartedly on their competitions without distraction. He further encouraged the young athletes to give their utmost on the global stage, to compete with passion, and to showcase the strength and spirit of Taichung’s youth baseball. He wished them success in their endeavors and a triumphant return.
The Education Bureau noted that the upcoming tournament have received enthusiastic support from all sectors of society. At the pep rally on July 22, numerous individuals and organizations generously contributed, including Legislator Yang Chiung-ying, City Councilor Chang Liao Nai-lun, Tian Feng Charity Association, KGI Securities, Da Jia Charity Association, Huide Temples in Huilai and Fengfu Villages, Chang An Clinic, Taichung Lecheng Temple, and Dajia Jenn Lann Temple. The bureau expressed sincere gratitude for the community’s support, which has provided the players and coaches with ample resources and a strong foundation.