Staying in dorms brings players together

GULFPORT — One of the more unique aspects of the Southeast Regional Tournament, which is spending its final season in Gulfport, is that all team players and coaches are required to stay in a dormitory facility located on the tournament grounds.

The college-like setup allows players from all over the Southeast the chance to interact away from the competitiveness of the field.

"That's where the players make their memories," Southern Region director Jen Colvin said. "There are no team colors or barriers between players. It's just a bunch of 11- (and) 12-year-olds having fun."

All teams check into the dorms the day before the tournament. Volunteer team hosts (two per team) stay with the players to make sure they are comfortable in their new surroundings. Security personnel lock the gate to the complex and patrol the grounds at night.

Parents aren't allowed in the dorms, and background checks are run on all adults with access to the facility, said security volunteer Gary Kay, who has been involved with Little League for 30 years, the past five at the Southeast Regional.

"It helps build the camaraderie between the teams and players," said Kay, who will work the Little League World Series in Williamsport as an usher. "It gives the players a chance to mingle and get to know one another. That's part of the experience. If you're off site, you don't get that."