The 73rd annual Pony League World Series returned to Lew Hayes Pony Field in Washington on Friday, and the excitement that surrounds the event every year came with it.

Tens of thousands of fans attend the tournament, which has become one of the marquee events in Washington County.

"The city of Washington, the home of Pony League Baseball, has rolled out the red carpet for these kids," said Abraham Key, president of Pony Baseball and Softball. "We have six days of baseball. But every game is important. Every game is exciting."

Ten teams compete in the double-elimination tournament, representing five U.S. states and four countries: Taiwan, Italy, Colombia and Mexico. Two of the teams — the host Washington County and South Hills — represent western Pennsylvania.

"I just think it's great t

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