JK Select Baseball Continues Expansion into the Midwest with Launch of JK Select Illinois

JK Select Baseball, one of the nation’s fastest-growing youth baseball organizations, announced its official expansion into the Midwest with the launch of JK Select Illinois, with teams starting in Central Illinois and Chicago marking another major milestone in the program’s continued national growth and commitment to elite player development.

The expansion brings JK Select’s proven development model, resources, and national exposure opportunities directly to Illinois, creating a clear pathway between local athletes and top national competitions, showcases, and collegiate recruiting networks.

“Illinois, welcome to JK Select Baseball. We’re excited to expand into a state with so much baseball history and culture. Proud to have Kenneth Hawkins and his program join the family as we continue to build something special. Let’s get to work!” - Jason Kidd, Founder and President of JK Select Baseball

“Illinois has a strong baseball tradition and continues to produce outstanding talent at every level of the game,” said Tate Caraway, National Director of JK Select Baseball. “Our goal is to provide players throughout the region with elite training, structure, and national exposure, while building a culture centered on development, accountability, and doing things the right way both on and off the field.”

“I am incredibly excited to bring JK Select Baseball to Illinois and provide young athletes with an opportunity to compete, develop, and be seen at a higher level. Illinois has tremendous baseball talent, and we’re proud to create a program that will help athletes from this region showcase their abilities on a national stage.” - Kenneth Hawkins, Director of JK Select Illinois

JK Select Illinois will focus on long-term player development, competitive travel opportunities, and access to national events and partnerships. The program emphasizes fundamentals, leadership, and character development while preparing athletes for the next level of baseball.

The Illinois expansion will include:

• Illinois-based teams competing in select national events
• Professional coaching and development standards
• College and professional exposure opportunities
• Full integration into JK Select’s national network and resources

JK Select Baseball has rapidly expanded its footprint across the United States, earning a reputation for excellence both on and off the field. The addition of Illinois further reinforces the organization’s mission to build a unified national platform for elite youth baseball development.