Crowds of fans show up early in order to get the perfect seat at either Volunteer or Lamade Stadium, but there are an equal number of visitors who come to the Little League World Series in the early morning hours to stake out the best spot in the outfield.
For 20 years, Bob McQuillen, of State College, has brought his family to the Series early in the morning - usually around 10 a.m. - to set up their chairs. On this day he found himself behind center field at Volunteer Stadium.
"We've always just sat here," he said.
Asked if anyone ever has beaten him to the spot in 20 years, he responds, "No, so far they haven't," as he lets out a chuckle.
For McQuillen's family, the early-morning quest for the same spot each year is worth it because of the view they are able to have. Like McQuillen's family, many choose to set up lawn chairs or blankets behind the fence because they are able to see the game from a different angle.
"I think it's just the excitement of the game and seeing (the players') reactions and their parents," McQuillen said of why he likes the outfield perspective.
"It's just a nicer view," said Gary Muthard, of Allentown, who was watching a game on the hill behind Lamade Stadium.
Bryan Lehman, of Halifax, said he enjoys being out in the "beautiful" weather when he can. He said when the sun is out that he likes being able to soak it up out in the outfield area.
Lehman added that bringing his own chairs to watch the game is more comfortable for him than the bleachers in the stadium.
McQuillen agreed that the ability to sit where and how you want to is a plus for him.
"You can relax out here, stretch out," he said.
Mike Deutsch, who was watching a game with Muthard, said not only is it more comfortable but he can see the game better.
"You can see the plays developing," he said.
McQuillen said he can interact with some of the players, too.
"A lot of the time you get to talk to a lot of the players," he said. "Just cheering them on and telling them, 'Good play,' and they give you a thumbs up."
He added that he just enjoys watching some great baseball.
"(I like) just watching the Little League group play. You can see some amazing plays," he said.
