There are certain sporting events that garner worldwide attention. Some, like the Super Bowl, are celebrated for their domestic significance; others, like the Olympics, for their international relevance. For 10 days in August, the world focuses on a town of less than 6,500 in central Pennsylvania for baseball's most fun and genuine competition the Little League World Series.
Yesterday, the 67th annual tournament began with a game between Aguadulce, Panama, and San Lorenzo, Puerto Rico. They are two of the 16 teams eight American and eight international that have descended on South Williamsport, Pa., for the pinnacle of youth baseball.
Millions of kids aged 11 to 13 participate in little league baseball across the globe. Many well-known athletes such as former Red Sox catcher Jason Varitek, Baltimore Orioles great Boog Powell, Seattle Mariners outfielder Jason Bay and Stanley Cup champion Chris Drury participated.
Drury, who led his team to one of the greatest upsets in Little League World Series history, called the experience the "thrill of a lifetime."
In the last three years, there have been a string of firsts in the tournament. In 2011, Lugazi Little League from Uganda became the first African team to qualify for the Little League World Series, though they could not compete because of a visa issue.
The next year, the kids from Lugazi made it and won a game.
This year, Australia and the Czech Republic sent teams for the first time.
My little league baseball career ended unceremoniously at the local level, so I never got to experience Williamsport as a player. I did, however, make the two hour trip every year to watch the tournament.
I still remember getting up early and climbing into the car with my grandparents. Every year, we parked in the same place in one of the dozens of temporary lots in a backyard. From their yard, it was a short walk to the gate. We simply walked in no ticket or admission price was required. We entered a beautiful complex of two stadiums, set among the rolling hills and residences of South Williamsport. The stadiums Howard J. Lamade and Volunteer might as well be Fenway Park or Yankee Stadium, they are so well maintained.
One of the amazing things about the Little League World Series is the massive crowds and support it draws. Lamade Stadium holds about 3,300 people, but for big games, over 40,000 fans pack the famous hill behind the stadium. Kids from all over the world get the chance to be in the spotlight and play the game they love. And that's what the Little League World Series is all about fun.
Every member of the team gets to play in each game. Every team is guaranteed three games. These two rules help ensure that each player benefits from the experience.
"The real spirit of the Little League Baseball World Series is found in the joy kids from all over the world bring onto a baseball diamond," Stephen Keener, president and CEO of Little League International, said.
Karl Ravech, ESPN commentator and Baseball Tonight host, echoed these sentiments, speaking to the magical nature of the 10 days.
"Uganda met Connecticut on a baseball field," he said. "Kids with gloves, bats and dreams, separated by worlds united by a game played for love."
The kids come to Williamsport to win, but also to have a good time and be great sports. When watching a game on television, it's easy to lose count of the number of times the camera pans to kids dancing with the Little League World Series mascot "Dugout." They frequently watch each other play and form friendships in their shared living spaces.
When I went, I would consistently see players and parents from around the world interacting with each other and with autograph-seeking fans.
The level of sportsmanship displayed at the games is incredible. Unlike their Major League counterparts, players never argue with calls or with the other team. After every game, the teams shake hands and exchange pins.
For 10 days in August, the kids get a chance to shine. Many of them won't make it back to a stage like this in their baseball careers and, even though the pressure must be immense, you couldn't tell by watching them. When the teams come home, they are often greeted by politicians, famous athletes and other celebrities from their home country, an opportunity many of them would not have otherwise. At its core, sports especially youth sports are supposed to be about instilling values and having fun.
The Little League World Series hits both of these things out of the park all in a magical 10 days.
