Washington is about to get a quick, four-day economic boost from the unlikeliest of sources — 8, 10 and 12 year olds.

For the first time in over a decade, the City of Washington’s Susiegray McConnell Complex will play host to the Little Tarheel League State Tournament, a baseball exhibition that will bring thousands of people to the town. But unlike Little League Baseball and softball tournaments in recent years, these teams won’t be from the local district (most of eastern North Carolina).

Teams from as far west as Shelby will make the cross-state, five-hour, 300-mile drive to the banks of the Pamlico River in hopes of bringing home a state championship trophy.

Forty-five teams — 8U, 10U and 12U (closed base) classifications — are expected at the tournament, which begins on July 30 and wraps up on Aug. 2. That’s more than 500 total players, players that will be traveling with relatives and supporters. On top of the revenue the Washington All-Star League will reel in from the $5 a person fee, T-shirt sales and concessions, tournament attendees will be staying at local hotels, eating at local restaurants and taking in everything Washington and the surrounding area has to offer.

Unlike more locally-based tournaments, the Little Tarheel State Tournament will introduce those who have never had the opportunity to visit Washington a first hand look at the area.

Earlier this month, the Washington City Council decided to waive city fees related to hosting this tournament, a fee estimated at about $5,000. According to league President Chip Edwards, the council’s decision to waive the fee factored in heavily to the decision of whether or not to host the tournament. It’s a decision that will likely pay economic dividends in the coming weeks.

The league committee of 15 people will help teams by organizing hotel accommodations, as well as providing umpires, hiring attendants, communicating with district heads, making T-shirts and preparing the concession stand, which the Washington football team will oversee.

Any extra proceeds from the event itself will benefit the league, the Pam Pack football team or go towards providing local youth with college scholarships, according to Edwards.

Even if you don’t have children of your own, supporting local sports organizations like the Washington All-Stars, Optimist Club soccer and the Washington Youth Football League is critical to not only children who participate, but the town as well. A lot of time and energy goes into putting a showcase like this on, so it’s important to remember those who dedicate their time to make tournaments like these happen.