Monday marked the beginning of the 2024 12U National Team Training Camp, held this year in Cary, North Carolina at Thomas Brooks Field.

Thirty-six players from various places throughout the United States competed on day one with hopes of being selected to the 12U National Team to help the stars and stripes defend their title in Tegucigalpa, Honduras.

Roger Wright, an assistant on last year's staff that won a gold medal, is excited for what's to come for the team after being a part of an exhilarating first day at Training Camp.

“After doing this last year, I kind of knew what to expect. Last year was kind of a learning curve for me, just like the kids. Over the last few days, it was tough to sit back and watch other games so it feels good to be out here. I knew what was coming today and I was very excited for it,” said Wright.

Seeing players spanning from North Carolina to California, day one was packed with impact players, making the competition for a spot on the national team roster a close race. Wright appreciated the level of play that the players brought to the first day and wants to see how they'll progress throughout the week.

“They were great. They were obviously very excited to be here. As a staff, we want to see where they’re at now and how they’ll grow throughout this experience. Of course, they're 11 years old. They have a lot of energy. We'll see as the week goes on, if they continue to keep their level of effort up.”

Selecting a national team is no easy task, especially when the pressure of defending a gold medal is on your back. But Wright believes that the staff will find the right group after successfully filling out a strong lineup last year.

“Right now, we’ll focus on all of the thirty-six kids that are here. That number will get cut down, giving us the final roster that will compete in Honduras.”

After serving on last year's staff, Wright knows what it takes to win a gold medal, but acknowledges that playing in World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) U-12 Baseball World Cup Americas Qualifier is more than just baseball as it gives both players and coaches the opportunity to represent their country on a national level.

“It's unbelievable. When I did it last year, I'm thinking, you know, this is no big deal. And then the first time I put my jersey on, luckily, I was in the hotel by myself, so nobody saw the tears going down my eyes. Then to win the gold medal and stand on that podium for your country, it's hard to describe. It's unique.”