First Tournament Kick-Off

There is so much to write about. We started the first tournament today. The kids came from all over the country, mostly from GA and FL, but one team from Denver and one as far away as California. The team names have been hilarious. We have two "Dirtbags" and a team called the "Chili Dogs."

I was doing the players/coaches picnic with Andrew, Dan, Colin, and David. We had a good time, but it was hard work; very hot and very tiring. After serving each one a bag of chips, a slice of pizza, and a hot dog it was time for the opening ceremonies.

The kids walked in from left field, past us interns and lined up along the field. After that, a guy from a local church sang the national anthem and Reggie Sanders threw out the first pitch!!!! I couldn't believe it! I thought it would take me a while to meet someone famous and he said he would be around all week.

Everyone is super friendly though. Danny, who works here full-time gave everyone in attendance his phone number in case they needed something in Myrtle Beach this week. I couldn't believe it.

The home run derby came after. I had the 14U on Duncan Field. It went to a swing-off between two kids who ended with 12 each in the first round. A boy for the Mizuno Edge set the complex record with 19 in the swing-off!!!! I had such a hard time imagining someone hitting so many home runs. The winners of the "bean bob" competition (where they throws balls from the outfield to hit a dummy at home plate) and the fastest double play got plaques shaped like home plates with facsimile signatures of the Ripkens and "skills winner." The derby champ got that as well as an engraved wooden bat with "Ripken Experience 14U Home Run Derby Champion" on it. It was a great prize to be able to hand over to someone. :)

Cody