The 2016 Babe Ruth Alabama state tournament begins today at LBWCC, but before the first pitch, players and coaches from each team gathered for a meal in the LBWCC gym.

The players and coaches arrived at the gym on Friday night and were greeted by members of the host Covington County All-Stars.

After brief introductions, everyone went into the gym where Covington County Babe Ruth League president Wayne Bush expressed gratitude for everyone who showed up and made the evening possible.

After eating a pizza dinner from Little Ceasars, players where given tickets for chances to win door prizes.

“This is just really nice way for them to come in and get to know each other before the games begin,” Bush said. “It also gives us the opportunity to have a coaches meeting where we discuss the rules and what’s expected from the players and coaches.”

Bush later talked about the importance of hosting a state tournament.

“This is a really good thing for a number of reasons,” Bush said of hosting the state tournament. “One of the biggest things is that it is great for our local economy. While they are here, they are spending money in our motels, restaurants, gas stations and at our local business.”

Aside from helping the local economy, Bush said it also helps them save on travel.

“Another good thing that a lot of people might not even consider is the savings on travel expenses,” Bush said. “By playing here, we are able to cut the travel expense by a good number. That’s something that a lot people don’t really see.”

The volunteers that have helped out this year are the reason things have been so successful, Bush said.

“We have a great group of volunteers that make this organization what it is,” Bush said. “Just take tonight, look at all those volunteers we have here that are making this possible. From the parents setting up and serving, to the coaches volunteering their time. That’s why it will be a great weekend of baseball.”

Covington County head coach Chase Short said that he expects he team to be prepared and excited to play today.

“They should be ready to play,” Short said. “They have been a great group of kids all year long. They always do what we ask of them.”

Short said the mind set of his players is something that should help them throughout the tournament.

“All these guys do is have fun,” Short said. “Nothing ever seems to get them down or distract them. They just stay relaxed and have fun.”

Tournament action begins today at 10 p.m., with a pool play game between Tallassee and Florence.

Opp follows at noon against Sylacauga.

Florence and Covington County match up at 2 p.m.

Opp and Tallessee square off at 4 p.m.

The final game of the day will be Covington County and Sylcacauga at 6 p.m.