SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT -- Batter up at the Little League Complex in South Williamsport!
Practice is in full swing for the 16 teams in the Little League World Series, including the team from Mexico and the team from Nebraska.
"I think it's crazy that we made it here. It's like a dream come true," said a player on Nebraska.
Coaches from the Midwest team say it is the first time a team from Nebraska has made it to the Little League World Series.
"There were 6,600 teams, played 16,000 games and we're down to the last 16, and you're that! Their eyes got big," said the Midwest team manager Brad Wegner
"It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience for them, and really for the parents too. We're just thrilled to be a part of it," said Kevin Ray, a Nebraska player's parent.
Lots of fans come to watch the practice sessions in South Williamsport. One couple from Williamsport told Newswatch 16 they are extra happy to be here because they have close ties to Kearney, Nebraska.
"My grandfather was the first president of what is now the University of Nebraska at Kearney," said Bud Thomas of Williamsport.
Bud and Gloria Thomas of Williamsport say they will root for the Midwest team to win the little league world series.
"We thought that was pretty exciting and we are going to have to at least get to a game," said Gloria Thomas, of Williamsport.
Speaking of exciting, the players said they feel like major league stars.
"I've been watching this every year since I was a little kid and I've been dreaming about coming here. It's amazing," said a player from Nebraska.
The festivities start Wednesday with the Grand Slam Parade through downtown Williamsport.
Opening ceremonies for the Little League World Series are set for Thursday at Volunteer Stadium in South Williamsport.