An 18-year-old umpire who went viral for his energetic calls and coverage at Little League games made his Savannah Bananas debut last Friday, calling it a dream come true.
"It was such a blast," Sawyer Sparks told ABC News on Wednesday.
The Savannah Bananas invited Sparks to ump a part of their home game against the Indianapolis Clowns in Savannah, Georgia, on June 5. At first, the recent high school graduate from Bakersfield, California, said he felt nervous.
"But as soon as my name got announced, and I started running in, all my nerves … just disappeared," Sparks recalled.
The Savannah Bananas shared an Instagram video recap of Sparks' call, running and sliding into position behind home plate, sharing fist bumps with players and then calling a strikeout play.
The Clowns ultimately won the game 3-2.
Sparks said he loved his time in the spotlight at Grayson Stadium and hopes to ump for the Savannah Bananas again.
"I really enjoy the way they do baseball, and it really fits the idea of how I perceive baseball as well," Sparks said, adding that he loves how the sport brings everyone together.
Sparks said he played T-ball and baseball growing up and started umping Little League games two years ago. He went viral after social media videos showcased his high spirited calls, slides and plays, while serving as a solo umpire at games.
Sparks said he plans to continue umping in the near future.
ABC News has reached out to the Savannah Bananas for comment.
