NICK FIORINI/Sun-Gazette Correspondent
Jin Takimoto throws against Nicaragua toward first base during Monday’s elimination game at Volunteer Stadium.
Four international teams faced off Thursday night while parents cheered from the stands and the community sat on the grassy hill or in the chairs they brought. These games weren’t in South Williamsport, though.
“Each year, we try to have what’s called a crossover game between an international team and a national team that’s been eliminated,” said Scott Metzger, a Little League uncle. “It lets them play more baseball with a local feel, and the community comes out.”
Japan played Australia at Montoursville Little League, and Puerto Rico played Europe and Africa at Hepburn Lycoming Little League.
“This year, the American teams returned home (after elimination),” Metzger said. “They had to leave because of school.”
When a team tells an uncle that the players want to play more baseball, the uncle first gets permission from Little League, and once granted, reaches out to the community to make it happen for them.
“We’re all excited to be here today and playing in America,” said Rebecca Crew, mother of Australian player Chase Crew. “It’s another opportunity to hit the ball.”
After the game in Montoursville, players and coaches ate at the field.
“We knew it was dinnertime,” Metzger said. “We wanted to give them a nice picnic.”
The Japanese and Australian players rode to Montoursville on a bus together and then sat together during the picnic.
“It’s supposed to be a fun game,” Metzger said. “It’s a sandlot game where they can make some friendships. It’s not a serious competition. It’s good old-fashioned baseball.”
He said one of the tallest players had one of the shortest players on his shoulders.
“They were smiling from ear to ear,” Metzger said. “That’s what it’s all about.”
That friendship extends beyond just the players.
“We’re having a great time,” Crew said. “Everyone is so friendly.”
The crossover game also is good for the community too, Metzger said.
“Some kids that might not have an opportunity to meet someone over (at Little League World Series) might meet them here,” he said. “It’s an extra opportunity for people to support Little League.”
The games are never a guarantee though — it is only if the teams request it.
“The community really embraces it,” Metzger said. “They don’t expect it. It’s an opportunity, not a right.”
Thursday night’s game came together at the last minute after Japan and Australia said they wanted to play more baseball. As soon as the players told their uncles, the uncles got to work on the details. Little League finds the umpires to call the game and arranges for the bus, he said.
“It’s a great opportunity for the local league to help Little League,” Metzger said. “If we can add to that in any way, it’s a plus for the community.”
The local league is an ambassador to Little League, which helps the overall program, he said.
“To have this in our backyard is a gift,” Metzger said.
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