It may have started at home in Uganda but also those at the venue felt it. The surprises and appearance of Team Uganda in the Little League World Series impressed huge numbers around the world.
Among them was Yankees manager Joe Girardi who was in total delight to see the youngsters grace the global platform last week.
“It’s a bunch of kids that really just started to play the game and to be able to make it to the (Little League)
World Series and compete at a very high level is truly remarkable.” Girardi, who got the chance to meet Team Uganda in person on Wednesday, told ESPN.com.
The youngsters toured the Stadium before the Yankees’ game against Toronto, with Girardi serving as a tour guide. “I just tried to show them around a little bit, spend a little time with them,” Girardi said. “It’s a wonderful story. It takes everyone back to our Little League days.”
The Ugandan team made history in Williamsport, Pa., when it became the first African team to win a game in the World Series. The Ugandans beat a team from Oregon in a consolation game last Tuesday.
The team toured the clubhouse and hung out on the field during batting practice, chatting with players and getting autographs. Earlier in the week, Team Japan took the same tour of the Stadium.
Some Ugandan players hadn’t heard of Derek Jeter, Alex Rodriguez or Robinson Cano prior to their day at the Stadium. One asked a reporter which player had signed his ball.