The USSSA Eastern World Series is back in Maryland and is bigger and better than ever. “We are thrilled to yet again host the USSSA Eastern World Series in Wicomico County, MD. Over the course of three weeks the tournament brings players, coaches, parents and families into our county and allows us to showcase the best of what we have to offer as a sports destination” said Elle Marks, Sports Marketing Representative, Wicomico County Recreation, Parks & Tourism.
An event like the USSSA Eastern World Series is a perfect fit for the MAASA (Mid-Atlantic Amateur Sports Alliance) initiative between Wicomico County, Worcester County and Ocean City, providing first-class facilities, top-notch attractions, hotels and restaurants, and a welcoming community with a great sports driven atmosphere. While the main fi
eld for the USSSA Eastern World Series is the Henry S. Parker Athletic Complex, games are also played across Wicomico County, Worcester County and Ocean City at the Fruitland Recreation Complex, Winter Place Park, East Wicomico Little League, Eastside Youth Sports Complex, John Walter Smith Park, Northside Park and Showell Park. “USSSA Girls Fastpitch World Series really brings the excitement to Worcester County,” said Paige Hurley, Director of the Worcester County Department of Recreation & Parks. “The atmosphere out at regional parks John Walter Smith and Showell is outstanding.”
With Week 1 finished, Bill Dowell, Vice President of Fastpitch, USSSA said “We just concluded a fantastic week of fun and competition at the USSSA Girls’ Fastpitch Eastern World Series for the 122 teams in the 10 & Under and 12 & Under divisions. From the exciting opening ceremonies to the final pitch, the feedback we’ve received from the coaches, parents, players and umpires has been overwhelmingly positive with everyon
e saying how much they look forward to coming back next year.”
This year the opening ceremonies were designed to impress and entertain. For weeks 1 and 2 the festivities will be held at the Wicomico Youth and Civic Center and adjacent Salisbury Zoo. The theme of these opening ceremonies is ‘Jungle Safari.’ Teams are encouraged to dress in their favorite animal attire, including masks, costumes and face paint. For the Week 3 opening ceremony, the fun will be moved to Ocean City. “We are pleased to welcome USSSA back. “It is wonderful seeing the players and their families enjoy their time in Ocean City,” said Donna Abbott, Director at Ocean City Tourism. The theme for the final opening ceremony will be ‘Beach Bash Kick-Off Party’ at the Ocean City Inlet and feature a variety of beach games, music, swimming, boardwalk amusements and more! “The biggest challenge we have each year as the host for this event is trying to top what we did the year before!” says Marks, but with opening ceremonies like these the whole family is sure to have a blast.
With Week 2 starting July 21, the focus is on “welcoming 144 teams in the 14U division visiting from 12 states and Canada. We have many exciting plans in store for all the families both on and off the field so that those participating this week can capture the same memories as those from last week took home.” says Dowell.
For more information about the USSSA Eastern World Series visit the website. To learn more about MAASA visit the webpage.
