The last time Loudoun hosted the Virginia State Little League Tournament was 1986 — the year the NY Mets beat the Boston Red Sox in a seven-game World Series.

The Wise team stands for the National Anthem. (Photos by Erica Garman)

The Central Loudoun Little League is hosting this year’s tournament, which began this morning at Freedom Park in Leesburg and will culminate with the championship game Wednesday evening.

At one of this morning’s games, I ran into huge Bo Sox fan Coach Jeff Kaplan, Health and PE instructor at Smart’s Mill Middle School. Kaplan was announcing the Bennett’s Creek vs. Jefferson game.

A York player steps to the plate.

“I come out here to volunteer my time,” he said. “And as a bonus I get to watch some great baseball and work on my tan.”

If tanning (or burning in my case) is not for you, bring a big umbrella as the sun is hot and shade is hard to find. Drinks and snacks are available for purchase.

Many cars in town for the tournament are decorated with team names and colors.

Purcellville’s own Upper Loudoun Americans will take on Honaker tonight at 7:30.

For the full tournament schedule click here. The public is welcomed and admission is free to all games.