SULLIVAN COUNTY –– As you walk towards the field, you’re greeted by the crack of the bat and snap of the ball hitting the catcher’s mitt. There’s batting practice all around, and the pitcher is warming up. Friendly chatter of encouragement is passed around, with some last-minute coach instruction. It’s an idyllic Friday evening at the ballpark, first day of summer, and the first day of the 2nd Annual Sullivan Summer Showdown girls fast pitch tournament.

The Two-day tournament is played at several parks throughout the county. This year, they welcomed 21 teams in two age divisions, with teams coming from as far away as New Jersey, Long Island, Syracuse, and Saratoga. Amy Taggart, the “Orange County Bombers” coach and event organizer, explained how these invitational road tournaments “Create a bonding experience that brings the girls closer together... they strengthen friendships and develop a real sense of community.”

That’s one of many reasons for the tournament’s rapid growth; last year, there were just six teams in only a single age division. It’s also an example of the growth of the sport as a whole; This year’s women’s college world series saw a 24% jump in viewership over the previous year.

Taggart stressed that while there are only a few Sullivan County girls in the tournament this year, “We’re trying to get more kids involved...you can have no talent, or you can be very talented, we offer lots of camps and training clinics. If you have just an interest, she said, “There will be a place for you.”

Another part of the appeal for girls and parents is the positive atmosphere. Ian Tuch, head coach of the 12 and under team, “Mount Olive New Jersey Storm,” shared his insight, “...It’s not all about winning and losing...we preach sportsmanship... we feel strongly about developing character, as well as the skills they need to achieve their goals.”

Both coaches stressed the commitment these girls and their families make, “...between the games, their training, and fundraising, it takes a lot of their time… they do it out of love for the sport.” The girls themselves echoed this sentiment, saying, “We love being with friends and having fun.” But also understood the more lasting lessons they were getting, “We’re learning about sportsmanship, teamwork, and building confidence...how to accept winning and losing.”

The games were well played and fast-moving, but what was most memorable was the character of the girls themselves, how supportive they were to each other, how respectful they were to the other team, their coaches, and the umpires.

 But what was obvious to anyone watching was how much fun they were having, being with their friends while playing a game they love.

Taggart wanted to make sure she thanked the Rock Hill and Smallwood fire departments and the Monticello High School. Without their support, the tournament couldn’t have happened. Any girls or parents interested in joining can contact Amy Taggart at amy.taggart24@gmail.com, or call (207) 229-6920