More than 2,000 of the best softball players in the country are in East Tennessee for this year's Fast Pitch World Series.
More than 85 teams carried team flags and took part in opening ceremonies Monday at Smokies Stadium.
The series is open to young women 20 and under.
Organizers say each year it pulls in teams from across the entire country, and that's experience the players will remember forever.
"They do a pin trading that way they can make friends with kids from all over the United States. They trade pins and that way they can go home and say 'hey, this team from Ohio gave me this beautiful pin,' and that's something they can cherish for the rest of their lives," said Freddie Mullins.
Actual tournament play will take place in Knoxville at Caswell City Park and Knox County's sports park.
Organizers estimate the event will bring in more than $1 million to the city.