Players are asked to wear their uniforms

1. If you are playing for Optimist or EC Auto you can take batting practice when your coach tells you to. You may keep your bat bags in the dugout during the opening ceremony.

2. If you are league age 9 years old or league age 12 years old then you will probably want to be a part of the group picture that has been planned for your fellow players that are the same Little League age as you. If you want to be in the picture report to the big green wall (batter’s eye). The picture will be taken off the field at 4:30 so please report to the wall by 4:15 if you want to be in the picture.

3. If you were on the 2023 Tar Heel (9-11) State Championship team please report to the area behind home plate (on the field) and have a seat on the grass near the wall behind home plate (between the dugouts) by 4:45. You will be receiving your awards near the beginning of the ceremony right after the visiting dignitaries speak. Once you have received your award then you will exit the field. Players need to quickly return to their regular season teams in the outfield area.

4. If you are a player in the league this year (who was not on last year’s state championship team) then you will report to the right field bleachers/ Blaise’s Picnic Area by 4:45. You will view the first part of the Opening Ceremony from the bleacher area/ Blaise’s Picnic Area in right field. This will keep you players from having to stand for FOREVER on the field. There will be some moms out there to get you somewhat organized before you make your grand entrance on to the field (through the left field service gate near the foul pole). Once the players have exited the bleacher area in right field spectators who do not have a seat are welcome to filter in to that area.

5. Buy a hot dog from Hot Dog Mike’s. Hot Dog Mike’s is known for their hot dog relish which is definitely a game changer. Mike’s food truck will be located behind Stallings Stadium, on the grass, between the stadium and the street. We will also have Pizza Hut pizza along with our normal selection of popcorn, candy, peanuts and soft drinks in the concession stand.

Other things to keep in mind:

1. Parking will be challenging. If you don’t get one of the spots in the main lot (several will be blocked off for dignitaries and the food truck) then you can expect to have a 3-5 minute walk from down the street to the park. If I had to guess the main lots (both upper and lower) will be full by 4:00 or 4:15.

2. Stallings Stadium seating is first come first serve.

3. Remember the concession stand is a “CASH ONLY” operation. So start scrounging through your couch cushions for loose change to get you ready for the season. Hot Dog Mike's will take BOTH CARD AND CASH.

HAVE FUN!!! and stay for the game. It should be a good one.