ORANGEBURG, S.C. — Orangeburg's Diamond World Series Tournament began today at South Carolina State University's campus, kicking off with opening ceremonies.
Guests were welcomed by former Charleston Southern baseball player Chris Singleton and the Gamecocks' new head baseball coach, Paul Mainieri.
Coach Mainieri spent some free time with the Louisiana team and player Hayes Corbello, who talked about how excited he was.
“We were with the South Carolina coach,” said Mainieri. “And we were like talking about all the team and stuff the equipment and it was very fun.”
Ashleigh Freeman and her family traveled from Pembroke, North Carolina. This is the family’s fourth World Series. She said hydration is the most important thing.
“So, it’s very important to stay hydrated so we make sure that they stay hydrated before they come on to the field so making sure we get that In them early on so lots of water we keep liquid IV hydration so those little packets that you put in water that helps too if they get really dehydrated on the field that will perk them up real quickly.”
Orangeburg coach Shane Burroughs said this is a chance for the team to show off their town.
“It’s an amazing opportunity to showcase Orangeburg and showcase our facilities and showcase the baseball game that we love and how we play in Orangeburg,” said Burroughs. “The kids are excited we’ve been practicing for over three months and they’re ready to compete they didn’t compete at the district and state level because of the automatic bid so they’re ready to play someone other than themselves and compete and hopefully compete at a high level."
This is the first time the city of Orangeburg is hosting the Diamond Youth Baseball tournament, and each team will play at least four games.
A tournament pass costs $30, and a day pass is $10.