Albany to host machine pitch tournament

The Albany Little League will once again be hosting one of the Little League District 5 machine pitch tournaments to compete against teams in the Big Country area.

“Sixteen teams will play in Albany on June 8,” said local little league president Paul Hamilton. “If we are the best of four, we will play in the Big Country final four on the following Monday night, June 10.”

The tournament is for teams made up of eight to nine year olds from around the Big Country area and will start at 8:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 8.

Albany has hosted one of the District 5 tournaments the last three years, and both league officials and participants have been very pleased with the setup and local fields, which has led to them returning to Albany for this year’s tournament.

“Our district administrator asked us to host because we’ve done a great job in the past,” coach Anthony Cedar said. “I think it helps to host because you get to use your own pitching machine, and kids rally to defend Albany’s field.”

The tournament is expected to draw a number of people from the surrounding area to Albany for the day, which can be a boost for local businesses.

“Teams from all over the Big Country enter, and it’s a great time for Albany kids to team up with their friends to enjoy competition against other leagues and towns,” Cedar said.

Albany teams have had success in the tournament in the past, and they hope to advance again this year.

“We were fortunate to win this tournament two years ago, and the kids who played on that team still talk about it,” said Cedar. “Last year we got all the way to the finals and then lost to Abilene Northern. Our goal will be to get in the final four and try to win it again this year.”

There will be one Albany team coached by Cedar at the tournament.