All eyes will be on Easley for another week next summer as the best young athletes from around the country and the world gather at J.B. "Red" Owens Recreational Complex for the Big League World Series.

The Little League International Board of Directors decided earlier this week that Easley would be the host for the 45th annual Big League World Series. Easley has hosted the tournament for the last 12 years.

"To host the world series again is a great thing for Easley," said Big League World Series Tournament Director Jon Humphrey. "It means a lot to the community."

The tournament dates are scheduled for July 25- Aug. 1, 2012, after one month of tournaments in eight different locations.

Once the regional tournaments are over, 11 teams will travel to Easley for eight days of baseball. 

Humphrey said the reason Easley has been selected as the host for the tournament is due to the support the Little League has from the community. Each year the BLWS is made possible by the coordinated efforts of approximately 200 volunteers.

"As long as we continue to have a group of dedicated volunteers and we keep the sponsorship up, we'll continue to host the tournament," Humphrey said.

The tournament will begin with Fan Fest, which will feature a Home Run Derby, concert and other entertainment for BLWS fans and volunteers.

Humphrey said he expects the final game of the series to once again be televised on ESPN.