America250 Lecture Series Sports in the Shadow of World War II
Fields of Conflict: Sports in the Shadow of World War II
Together we will examine how World War II fundamentally reshaped athletics, as major sporting events were suspended, athletes were drafted into military service, and leagues were forced to adapt for survival. Well explore the cancellation of global competitions such as the 1940 and 1944 Olympics and the World Cup, the rise of womens sportsmost notably the All-American Girls Professional Baseball Leaguethe merging of professional teams like the Steagles, and the shift toward military base athletics. Despite these challenges, sports remained a crucial source of morale and unity on the home front during wartime.
When: August 11, 2026 at 6:00PM
Cost: FREE for members; $7 for non-members (tickets include a self-guided tour of the museum in addition to the program)
***Each person attending must be a member to get the member rate. Members may not make reservations for non-members on their behalf***
About the Speakers:
Sam Sprunger
President, Lounge Media Group
Sam is a history educator with over 15 years of teaching experience and a lifelong passion for sports. Known for his deep knowledge of Purdue basketball and Chicago Cubs baseball, he brings enthusiasm and insight to both the classroom and the field. In addition to teaching, Sam has coached football and baseball for students of all ages. Outside of his professional work, he stays busy supporting his children at sporting events year-round, traveling with his wife, and contributing to the Dad Lounge and BoilerMaker Lounge podcasts.