Our History
Over six decades of developing players, building champions, and representing our community with pride.
Where It All Began
Bob Ward began building the Woodward Travelers in 1964, and over 37 seasons he compiled a 1,939-797 record — a .709 winning percentage — while leading the program to 17 district titles, 12 state tournament berths, 2 state championships, and a berth in the 1985 American Legion World Series. With rosters full of small-town kids from northwest Oklahoma, Ward turned the Travelers into a program recognized across the country, taking his teams to New York, Boston, Houston, Colorado, and beyond.
His greatest legacy may be the 200-plus college scholarships his players earned — estimated at over $1 million — opening doors to careers in law, medicine, education, aviation, and more. Four of his players reached the major leagues: Don Carman, Monty Fariss, Ryan Minor, and Damon Minor. Ward handed the reins to his son Mark in 2001, and his No. 5 jersey remains the only number ever retired in program history. He is, simply put, the reason there is a Traveler program.
Year by Year
Organization Founded
Travelers Baseball established with one 12U team and 15 players.
Second Team Added
Added a 10U team, growing the organization to 30+ players across two age groups.
First Tournament Championship
The 12U squad captured the organization's first tournament title, setting the tone for years to come.
Expanded to Four Teams
Rapid growth led to the addition of 14U and 16U programs, bringing total roster to 70+ players.
State Showcase Appearance
The 16U team earned a berth in the state showcase tournament, gaining exposure to college scouts.
Resilience Through Adversity
Navigated a shortened season with creativity, keeping players engaged and development on track.
Full Five-Team Roster
Launched the 18U program, completing the full 10U–18U pipeline and reaching 100+ players.
Multiple Tournament Titles
Three age groups brought home championship hardware in the same summer — a program-best season.
College Commitments Milestone
Ten Travelers alumni announced college commitments, validating the program's development pipeline.
50+ Tournaments Played
Crossed the milestone of 50 tournaments competed in across the organization's history.
Building More Than Baseball Players
The Travelers legacy is measured not just in wins and championships, but in the young men who have come through this program and gone on to compete at the high school, college, and beyond. We are proud of every player who has worn the Travelers uniform — each one is part of a tradition that continues to grow.
Be Part of the Next Chapter
The Travelers story is still being written. Come join us.