Granddaughter takes over Milwaukee’s Beckum-Stapleton Little League to rebuild youth baseball legacy

Asia Beckum is taking over as executive director of the Beckum-Stapleton Little League to honor her grandfather’s legacy and bring more kids back to the game.

Source: TMJ4

On Milwaukee’s North Side, the Beckum-Stapleton Little League has been a home for generations of kids for more than 60 years.
Now, after the loss of founder James Beckum, his granddaughter Asia Beckum is stepping up as executive director to continue and rebuild the family legacy for generations to come.

“The community should know that we are still here. We’ve never stopped, we are functioning well, and we are growing,” Asia Beckum said.

James Beckum was more than a coach—he was a pillar of the Milwaukee community who dedicated his life to creating opportunities for young people through baseball. As the founder of Beckum-Stapleton Little League, he spent decades building a program rooted in discipline, mentorship, and access, ensuring kids had not just a place to play, but a place to grow.

Known for his commitment to providing quality equipment, strong coaching, and a supportive environment, Beckum helped shape the lives of thousands of children—many of whom went on to become leaders in their own communities. Today, his legacy lives on through the league that bears his name, continuing to impact a new generation.

Asia Beckum is focused on honoring tradition while pushing the league forward as the new season starts.

“We’re trying to honor traditional ways while also adding new ones to grow the league,” Asia Beckum said.

“My grandfather’s shoes are extremely big to fill, but if we come together as a community, we can get close,” Asia Beckum said.

James Beckum’s son, Frenchy Beckum, reflected on his father’s dedication and the decades of impact the league has had on the community.