Lyon’s Pub Warriors
“In some states, townball is all but extinct in its traditional form. In others, particularly in Minnesota, it remains vibrant and popular.”
– Jerry Kelly, Bushville, Life and Time in Amateur Baseball.
Amateur Baseball or “Townball” has been played in Minnesota since the 1920s. Today, there are more than 300 active Townball teams in Minnesota playing in over 30 leagues throughout the state. The Lyon’s Pub Warriors are members of Minnesota Class A Amateur Baseball Association and they play in the Minneapolis Park National League. Parade Stadium, home to Warriors and the Park national league is located just west of Downtown Minneapolis.The Warriors toiled in the Park National League for many years, had a difficult time finding players, and in the early 1970’s the team was in danger of folding. In 1972 the Warriors picked up a player named Greg Schildgen and the rest they say is history. Greg and his buddies played and then recruited more players from all around Minneapolis and became a contender for the Minnesota Amateur Baseball championship, eventually winning the Class AA title with Robert’s Upholstery as its sponsor in 1977.
In 1989, the Warriors were once again in danger of folding before Lyon’s Pub took over sponsorship with former player Greg Schildgen as the team manager. Long-time Lyon’s Pub Bartender and Warriors pitcher, Scott “Q” Quam was an integral part of establishing the relationship that continues today.
Managers, coaches, players and fans have changed over the course of time, but the Lyon’s Pub Warriors have always had a colorful cast of characters who could also play ball. The Warriors have gone on to be a highly successful team in Minnesota Amateur Baseball making the Class A Baseball State Tournament 19 times since Lyon’s Pub became the team’s official sponsor, with their highest finish being 2nd place in 2011. The Lyon’s Pub Warriors continue to play in the Park National League and are one of the longest tenured teams in Minnesota Class A Amateur Baseball. The Warriors thank Lyon’s Pub for their continued support throughout the years.
