CLEMSON — Summerville took top honors in the 2008 South Carolina Dixie Youth State Baseball 12-and-under All-Star Tournament Thursday, but it was the city of Clemson that was the real winner.

Hosting the event for the first time in more than a decade, the tourney is projected to have an economic impact of at least $750,000.

Twelve teams were involved, all competing at Nettles Park.

“It has been a lot of work, but it has been worth it to see the caliber of play of these young people,” said Clemson recreation director Steve Figueroa. “When you see double plays and the hard fastballs these guys can throw, you are seeing the best. Our revenues have exceeded $27,000 and the crowds have been great. We have more than covered our expenses and that is good for a tournament of this type.”

Summerville’s 4-1 victory over Gilbert assured the team a spot in the Dixie Youth World Series.

Local teams also played on Wednesday night and just missed the final round. Summerville advanced to the finals by beating Liberty 4-1 and Gilbert got there by winning a tight game over Central-Clemson, 7-6.

Mike “Gator” Spearman and Glenn “Big E” Hughes served as field supervisors for the event.

“I have been in charge of concessions,” Hughes said. “We have volunteers from the Daniel High School football team helping out. I feel it is important to build community spirit in these young men. They have been role models for the younger boys and have set a good example at the games.”

Dave Geer, who maintains the baseball fields for Clemson Recreation Department, said the fields were still in good shape despite six consecutive days of competition.

Figueroa said, “We would look at sponsoring the tournament again, but we will not be eligible until 2010,” Figueroa said.