Forty-four Little League all-star teams from across eastern North Carolina have come to Washington for the Tarheel League District 7 Tournament at the Susiegray McConnell Sports Complex.

For the last week, the City of Washington has co-hosted the tournament with the Tarheel League. The tournament raises funds for the league’s general operating cost and helps the children of the league.

“All of the funds that we obtain from concessions, t-shirt sales and those kinds of items go to our local community league, which is the Washington Youth League” said Chip Edwards, Washington’s league president. “Over 300 kids play on an annual basis during the spring.”

For each child in the league, there is a $25 entry fee prior to the regular season that covers insurance and uniforms for each kid, Edwards said.

“It is a very low amount of money to require, which is a good thing to try and increase participation,” Edwards said.

The Tarheel League tournament admission for a game is five dollars a ticket. The money from the tickets and shaved ice stand is split between general costs and to help kids further their education.

“Half of they money helps to cover administrative costs, along with purchasing baseballs,” Edwards said. “The other 50 percent goes to the Little Tarheel League for their scholarship programs.”

Edwards said the goal of the league is to build a better baseball league every season, and to generate community involvement.

Washington High School head football coach, Sport Sawyer and members of his football team have helped out in the concession stand.

“They have taken a great burden off of the administrative staff of the league in working the concession stand,” Edwards said. “We’re trying to bring the entire community together.”

The league officials fundraise to help take the burden off the athlete’s families as well.

“We did the chicken plate fundraiser last year and this tournament is a huge fundraiser, along with asking for sponsors from different businesses throughout the community,” Edwards said.

The conclusion of the weeklong tournament is Monday afternoon when a champion is determined.