Hap Dumont Tournament begins Saturday
10-year-old boys' baseball tournament begins Saturday
Hillsboro will be under attack by 25 baseball teams comprised of 10-year-old boys competing Saturday through Thursday in the Hap Dumont State Tournament.
At stake may be four tickets to this year's Hap Dumont World Series in Harrison, Ark., not to mention a much coveted sportsmanship trophy to go along with a champion's trophy and a Kansas flag for the World Series.
The tournament is sponsored by the Hillsboro Lions Club, which also will take care of the gate, concessions, and umpiring.
Tournament director Bob Hein expects a competitive turnout this year, with teams coming from Pittsburg, Lawrence, Hays, Wichita, and Topeka communities.
The 2004 tournament will mark the fourth year Hillsboro has hosted the tournament. It was held in Topeka the previous eight years.
"Some of the teams have played 50 to 60 games already and they start as early as March," said Hein.
"It brings parents, grandparents, and good money into the community because of the way we run the tournament."
Amidst tough competition, competing players often spend their free time playing golf, swimming, and shopping. The local motel also is sold out.
The 2003 tournament champion Pittsburg All-Stars will be in attendance, as well as two teams from the area — the hosting Hillsboro team and one comprised of the Cottonwood Valley All-Stars.
Hillsboro's team is coached by Todd Arnold.
The double elimination tournament is scheduled to begin at 9 a.m. Saturday and conclude Thursday night.
Admission is $4 for adults, children under five get in free.
