The Dream Begins.

Tuesday, August 13:  Off to Williamsport!  Can't believe the day is finally here. I'll go through Atlanta to Harrisburg, then rent a car and make the two hour drive north to the Little Leage mothership.  Dick's Sporting Goods is hosting a cookout celebration -- just for the umpires.  Then we'll head to the official meeting and learn what to expect during the next two weeks.

I'm more than a little overcome by the emotion of it all.  It is such an honor to be able to make this trip, to follow many of my fellow Southeast Region umpire friends in this journey, and to finally experience the uniqueness of the Little League World Series. 

So grateful for all the support I've received over the years.  A shout out to all my friends in District 14 (Windermere) where it all started.  Bruno, Debbie, Jerry, Greg, Chris, Richard, Chip, Tom and many others.  I'm reminded of all the patient advice I received from my old friend Jack Hart -- I only wish he could have lived to share this experience with me.

Thanks to Mike, Andrea, Rodney, Rob, and Travis in District 21 who helped kick my butt into shape.

I must admit there's a little pressure -- each year there are more games televised, more camera angles, and more super slo-mo.  This year we have social media gone nuts -- umpire chat rooms where my colleagues will analyze every move.  Yikes.  No pressure at all!