Before the best teams in college baseball showdown on the diamond at the 2017 College World Series, there is a full day of events in and around the TD Ameritrade Park for fans on Friday.
Dan Morrisey with the College World Series says during the day, fans can come watch their favorite teams practice on the biggest stage in college baseball. "They're welcome to come down and enjoy team practices, all day long. There will be autograph sessions by each team, following their practice."
Team practices and autograph sessions start at 9:10 AM and end at 5:30 PM. Throughout the day there will also be a number of fan activities outside of the stadium at the Fan Fest.
After the practices and autograph sessions wrap up, fans are encouraged to stick around for the parade of teams. "We plan on having a team parade from Creighton's Morrison Stadium, all the way down Fahey Street. Then we're going to introduce them Olympic style into the stadium." The parade starts at 8:30 PM.
After teams are introduced, Morrisey says to keep your eyes on the skies. "That will be followed by the US Army Golden Knights jumping out of the sky, parachuting into the stadium. We've got eight parachuters coming in, representing the eight teams."
The night closes with live music from Grammy nominated artist Aloe Blacc and a fireworks spectacular, that will light up the Omaha skyline with brilliant bursts of color.
You can see a full schedule of Opening Ceremony Events on the NCAA's website here.