For no apparent reason, I’ve been fascinated by the Little League Baseball World Series this past week. It’s odd because, ordinarily, my interest piques near the end of the second week as the U.S. and International Champions are crowned.
Perhaps it was the special episode of our “Conversations with Sports Fans” podcast from last week featuring my buddy John Paklidenaz who, along with his son J.D., is once again volunteering at the LLBWS this year.
Or, perhaps, it’s the fact that ESPN has poured oodles of resources at the event over the course of several years to elevate it’s profile. As all of the regional tournament games are now televised, those interested are able to get to know the teams and players in advance of their arrival in South Williamsport, PA. Heck, two-thirds of ESPN’s Sunday Night Baseball crew has been there from the onset (Karl Ravech and Eduardo Perez).
Or, perhaps, more simply, it transports me to another time when I had few cares or considerations.
Forty years ago, Kirkland, WA, wasn’t known as the home to Costco and its eponymous product name. No, Kirkland, WA, was home to the LLBWS Champions. The team that took down the mighty Taiwanese juggernaut that had won 31-straight games in Pennsylvania and five consecutive LLBWS championships. The team that featured the man-child with the curly-blonde hair named Cody Webster who became a nationwide phenomenon. Shoot, the kid became the face of “the thrill of victory” on ABC’s Wide World of Sports program, replacing 1980 Team USA Miracle on Ice goalie, Jim Craig. Forty years ago I wasn’t yet able to drive.
I think that’s why I enjoy these pair of weeks so much. For us here in the north it means summer’s winding down, but it also – if only for a few fleeting moments – allows me to recapture some of the memories and feelings of my younger years before the obligations that come with adulthood.