Where in the country can you find 300 of the top high school baseball players, all in the same location…in January? The answer is simple, Tucson, Arizona. The third annual Under Armour Pre-Season All-America Tournament, powered by Baseball Factory took place this past weekend at the Kino Sports Complex, spring training home of the Arizona Diamondbacks. This event is the only non-paper Pre-Season All-American recognition in the country. Unlike the past two Under Armour Pre-Season All-America Tournaments the weather was exceptional. The players started and ended the day in short sleeves with temperatures mostly in the mid 70s.
 

During the opening ceremonies on Friday night the players, parents and coaching staff were treated to a keynote speech given by ESPN analyst Steve Phillips. Standing room was the only option if you came late, as over 950 players, family members and friends packed into the ballroom. Phillips’ words led the players into the first day of the tournament, making sure they knew that they were here to work hard, battle and give everything they got.
 

During the first on-field day of the event players got to show off their skills in a showcase. After all 20 teams ran through the showcase workout the first games started. With top players at every position on the field each game was exciting and the players did not disappoint with strong pitching, powerful hitting and solid defense. That evening players and parents had the opportunity to speak with Kelly Kulina, Dan Mooney, Jimmy Johnson and Bill Bliss on college recruiting, scouting and player development. This unique opportunity gave them the chance to ask specific or general questions on various baseball topics. 
 

In the second on-field day of the event teams finished up with two games. There was a buzz about the facility as solid baseball continued to be played. There were many players and parents remarking how fortunate they were to be playing since their fields back home were still covered with snow or in freezing temperatures. It was evident that the players were excited to be there with their outstanding play on the field and the scouts took notice. Representatives from numerous Major League organizations, Baseball America and the local press attended in order to gather information on the players.
 

With the third annual Under Armour Pre-Season All-America Tournament in the books we can look forward to the spring and summer baseball season. The 2009 Under Armour All-America Game, powered by Baseball Factory featuring the top 36 high school 2010 graduates will take place this summer. Last year the event was held at historic Wrigley Field in Chicago, IL. Four players from the 2008 Under Armour Pre-Season All-America Tournament went on to play in the Under Armour All-America Game. With the talent out in Tucson this past weekend a few players may be following in their footsteps on the “Road to the Under Armour All-America Game.” They will have to wait until the official game rosters are announced to find out!
 

For more information on the 2009 Under Armour Pre-Season All-America Tournament [click here]
 

For more information on the Under Armour All-America Game [click here]