Little League contest all wrapped up for the year

NOW the dust has settled on the National Little League Baseball Tournament, Lismore can take a bow in pulling off what many believed was unachievable.

Sunny, warm weather greeted the start of the National Little League Baseball Tournament at the Albert Park complex in Lismore. Picture: Baseball Australia

NOW the dust has settled on the National Little League Baseball Tournament, Lismore can take a bow in pulling off what many believed was unachievable.

Lismore City Council outdoor staff and many FNC Baseball volunteers set about restoring the Albert Park complex after the recent flooding and within two days the fields were “play” ready.

They worked tirelessly to make it happen for the 20 teams and the supporters who came from all over Australia.

Nothing but praise was heaped on FNC Baseball and the council as a very successful tournament unfolded.

The eventual winner, Sydney team Hills, conceded only one run in the tournament while amassing 68 runs before the gold medal game.

FNC umpire Aiden Hanlon was rewarded for his umpiring ability, being named the “umpire in charge” of the final game, doing a great job behind the plate.

There were many tournament highlights and strong players, including Tyson Schunk, pitching for Adelaide Seahawks, who took a line drive from the batter, hitting him in the head. He was taken to hospital for observation and was released later that day. The next day he showed great courage and grit, hitting two home runs and five runs batted in.

The event was marred by rain and strong southerly winds in the last two days but all scheduled games were played. Hills will now get an all-expenses-paid trip to the Little League World Series in the US .

This tournament comes off the back of the Senior Little League Baseball Tournament held last month and both events will be held in Lismore for the next four years, bringing millions of dollars to the region.

FNC Baseball will now look to its next tournament, The Timberjacks Friendly Series, being held from July 8-10 at the Albert Park complex, where it will again be flooded with players and supporters.