If you've been anywhere near Panama City Beach these last two weeks, you might have seen the take over of team jerseys and striped knee socks.
The 12th annual US Fast Pitch Association World Series has brought more than 500 hundred teams and their families to the beach and it's been a home run for our local economy.
More than 7000 people have hit the fields at parks all across Bay County. They've also hit the local restaurants, businesses and our beaches…bringing a nice boom in to the summer season.
The St. Louis "Fusion" out of Missouri is looking for a victory in their final days of competition.
For player, Sarah Williams, getting here is a point of pride.
"I'm really happy with my team and how hard we've been working," said Williams.
But in the middle of batting practice, the team still found time for fun while shopping at Pier Park and dinning out.
"We've been on the beach a lot (too)," added Williams as she sported a "sun-kissed" glow.
For Sarah's dad and assistant coach, Tom Williams, it's his last world series with his daughter before she heads to college.
"This is our last hoorah," added Williams.
He said there isn't a better place to spend it than right here in PCB.
"Beautiful beaches in the world, and beautiful weather and it's just a great time down here to bring a family," added Williams.
"This is the business we want," said Sharky's Senior Operations Manager, Robert Hammer.
Hammer said he is happy his seats are filled each July with softball families from across the country.
"These are good people, they respect the property, they come in a have a good time, and that's really what we like," said Hammer.
As the girls round the bases and head back home—literally--local business are hoping they've made a good impression.
"A lot of families we're with are saying they'll be back," said Williams.
All content © Copyright 2000 - 2013 WorldNow and WMBB. All Rights Reserved. For more information on this site, please read our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.
