USSSA Eastern Nationals Marks 20 Years on Eastern Shore

Salisbury, MD - Get ready to see softball uniforms everywhere. The USSSA Eastern Nationals returns to the Eastern Shore July 14 through Aug. 1, and this year is a big one.

The three-week tournament marks the 20th anniversary of Eastern Nationals on Maryland's Eastern Shore. It's a milestone worth celebrating for local sports fans and businesses alike.

This year's event will bring 340 girls softball teams to our area. Teams are traveling from 17 states, plus Canada and the Czech Republic, to compete across Wicomico and Worcester Counties and the Town of Ocean City.

Much of the tournament's success comes from a strong local partnership. The Mid-Atlantic Amateur Sports Alliance (MAASA) connects Ocean City, Wicomico County and Worcester County in a shared sports marketing effort.

"This milestone that reflects the incredible growth of this event and the strong collaboration among the MAASA partners," said Justin Polizzi, tourism manager for Wicomico County. "The partners' shared commitment and dedication have helped make the Eastern Nationals a premier tournament, bringing lasting economic and community impact to our region year after year."

USSSA leadership shares that same pride in the event's growth. "USSSA Eastern Nationals has grown to become one of the largest fastpitch events of its kind in the country," said Andy Wisk, owner of USSSA East Coast Events. "We have phenomenal facilities for activities on and off the field, great support from our host partners and their communities, and the perfect place for players and their families to create lifetime memories through their sport."

The numbers behind this event are impressive. Organizers expect the tournament to generate more than $22 million in economic impact for the region.

Two opening ceremonies will kick things off. The first is July 14 at the Wicomico Civic Center, with a parade starting at 5 p.m. The second is July 21 at Ocean City's Caroline Street Stage, with a parade starting at 3:45 p.m.

Media are welcome to attend both ceremonies. It's a great chance to see the community spirit that makes this event special.

For two decades, this tournament has brought families, players and fans to our shores every summer. Here's to 20 years of Eastern Nationals, and many more to come.