Jana Candler Photography
Gage Laymon had two hits in Northwood's opening game win.
Jana Candler Photography
Ben Tumblin had two hits to lead the hit parade in Northwood's opening round win.
Having a day between games isn’t like taking a day off for the Northwood Little League team.
By beating Cranston, R.I. (Northeast) 6-1 Friday, Northwood (Southeast) is thrust into the winner’s bracket. Northwood’s next game is Sunday at 7 p.m. against Pennsylvania, the hometown favorite. Pennsylvania smashed Missouri 18-0 Friday.
The winner of Monday’s game won’t play again until Wednesday.
Northwood will have practice sessions in fielding and hitting Saturday.
“The coaches want the kids to see other games also, so they will probably be going to the U.S. games today, maybe the Little League museum,” John Eastlake, who is an “uncle” to the team during its stay in Williamsport.
“There are the sponsor tents also, there's always something to do there,” Eastlake said.
The Northwood team was handed pins to trade with other teams.
• The teams room in a dorm-like structure within the Little League playing complex. Hotels are nearby for parents and friends, but the players usually have one and a half hours for family each day, mostly during a dinner.
• “Everybody walks everywhere here,” Eastlake said. The only time you get on a bus is after the game.”
• Last Friday, the Warner Robbins, Ga., called the Little League officials about Northwood’s travel plans. Also included in the conversation, “the coach said we are getting a real good team and think they can go far. ‘They are the real deal,’” Eastlake said.
• Northwood players will be keeping warm this year with a leather jacket among the items they were given when they arrived.