SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT-The Little League World Series participants had more than a life time of memories to take home with them.
The last of the 16 teams from the 68th world series headed home Monday with all the players taking with them mementos of the occasion.
They got to keep their uniform jerseys, hats, cleats and sun glasses while as a team they took with them catcher's equipment, bats and batting helmets. Little League sponsors donated the equipment.
Most of the players wore their brightly colored sun glasses on their ball caps throughout the series except for games played under the lights.
Players are presented a participation medal at their first game but there are no trophies for winning the series. The Seoul, South Korea, went home with two teams banners for being the world champion and the international bracket winner.
Likewise, the Jackie Robinson West all-stars returned to Chicago with a banner they earned as the U.S. champs. Seoul defeated Chicago, 8-4, Sunday for the world title.
Every time South Korea has made it to the series, it has returned home as world champion. It did so without losing a game in 1984, 1985 and again this year.
The managers don't go home empty handed either. They got to keep their polo shirts, hats and sun glasses.
The series was a tremendous success, said Patrick Wilson, tournament director. Thanks to exciting action on the field and good weather, thousands of visitors had a wonderful experience, he said. Little League already is looking ahead to next season, he said.