Win or lose, participating in the state tournament in the majors division is a once in a lifetime experience. A lot of kids play little league baseball, but not all of them get to say they've been to state. Even fewer make it to regionals and then the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. For me, growing up in Kirkland, Washington where in the early 80's our Kirkland National LL sent 2 teams to Williamsport, and 1 of them won the whole thing, I understand what a wonderful tradition and a big deal this is to some 12-year-old boys and their families. We are thrilled that we get the opportunity to participate in this amazing event.
The Washington State Tournament officially kicked off on Friday with opening ceremonies being held in Port Orchard. Our gang arrived, via the Edmonds-Kingston Ferry, and ran onto Art Mikelsen Field, representing District 8. Unfortunately, our banner had been left at home in Shoreline. Oh well. Mike Sweeney of the Seattle Mariners threw out the ceremonial first pitch and took a few minutes to speak to the boys. He spoke on running the RACE to the finish line (the state championship) with R-respect, A-attitude (positive), C-competition, and E-effort. He was very generous with his time, as he shook hands with and signed autographs for the kids.
We had the day off Saturday, as District 8 had a first round bye.
Yesterday, we faced a tough Bainbridge Island team and left Port Orchard with a 0-4 defeat; the first time our team has gone scoreless. The tournament is double-elimination, so we are still in it, but will need to do it the long way again through the "losers" bracket. But, we've been there before and know that it can be done.
GO RICHMOND!!!!
