Diethrick Park in Jamestown

All-stars prepare for Jamestown trip

By Michael Butler

The Tallassee 13-year-old all-stars will depart for the Babe Ruth World Series in Jamestown, N.Y. on Aug. 11. The Southwest Region champs have been practicing and fundraising since their title-clinching win in Demopolis on July 18.

"The people of Tallassee have always supported the youth of Tallassee and this has been no different," head coach Tommy Wisener said. "The generosity of our community has been overwhelming. There are so many people to thank. I hope everyone realizes how grateful we are. You still gotta love small town America."

Members of the Jamestown Eastside Fellowship will greet players on Thursday, Aug. 12. A welcome meal for the 10 participating teams will also be offered. The World Series Parade of Champions is planned for Friday, Aug. 13 at 6 p.m. (Eastern).

"It is a great experience for the kids to be honored and introduced to the area and begin their World Series experience," said Kimberly Ecklund, Jamestown Babe Ruth World Series Committee member.

Opening day is Saturday, Aug. 14 at Diethrick Park. Games begin at 11:30 a.m. local time with opening ceremonies scheudled for 7 p.m. Tallassee begins pool play on Saturday vs. Ohio Valley at 2 p.m. (1 Central).

The all-stars were recognized at last week's council meeting and received a $1,200 donation. Pictured (left to right): Tommy Wisener (manager), Konner Taunton, Baylor Clayton, Brody Wisener, Hutston Lewis, Brody Smith, Luke Chandler, Donavon Aldridge, Mason Henderson, Avery Brantley, Jack Butler, Xander Johnston. (Not pictured): Slade Carleton.

Tallassee will play four pool-play games in five days with Monday being the off day. The top six seeds will advance to bracket play on Thursday, Aug. 19. The top seed from each of the two pools receives a bye into the semifinal round on Friday, Aug. 20. The championship game will be on Saturday, Aug. 21.

This is the first time since 1995 that a Tallassee team has reached a Babe Ruth World Series. It is the fourth time overall that a local squad has advanced to a Babe Ruth World Series.

*All Times Central
Saturday, Aug. 14 at 1:00: Ohio Valley at Southwest
Sunday, Aug. 15 at 6:00: Southwest at Jamestown
Tuesday, Aug. 17 at 4:00: Southwest at Pacific Southwest
Wednesday, Aug. 18 at 4:00: Midwest Plains at Southwest