Little League Softball World Series kicks off with opening ceremony in Greenville

GREENVILLE, N.C. (WITN) – The Little League Softball World Series has returned to one Eastern Carolina city for a third year and held an opening ceremony to celebrate.

The Town Common in Greenville was filled with young athletes, friends, and families Saturday to kickstart the beginning of the Little League Softball World Series.

“We’re really excited,” Mayor P.J. Connelly said. “We’re thankful that Little League gave us the opportunity to be the host city for this wonderful event.”

As the tournament begins, many supporters are sharing their favorite parts each year.

“I like it when they have a good attitude and good sportsmanship,” attendee Lydia Jenkins said.

With activities such as face painting and boat rides, plenty of games, music, food trucks, and dancing, there was something for everyone to enjoy.

From August 4th to 11th, thousands of people will gather at Stallings Stadium in Elm Street Park for the Little League Softball World Series, something many are looking forward to.

“Just getting to watch them like their dreams come true basically”, attendee Karleigh Rouse said.

Bailor Peebles is supporting his sister on the North Carolina region team and said he loves coming out to the games each year.

“Just watching the girls compete and have fun while doing it like they get to do all this special stuff so I think it’s a big part of their life,” Peebles said.

With the tournament estimated to bring nearly $1.3 million in economic impact to the Greenville-Pitt County community, the World Series is sure to hit a home run.

“It’s great for our community it’s great for our businesses and we’re excited to see some great softball,” Mayor Connelly said.

This year’s tournament will feature 12 teams from across the United States, Asia-Pacific, Canada, Europe-Africa, and Latin America.

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