Check out photos of the team's first day in Omaha.

Welcome to the 2002 College World Series! Welcome to Rosenblatt Stadium, home of the 2002 College World Series. Members of the Irish baseball team, including centerfielder Steve Stanley and relief pitcher Matt Laird, watch Stanford practice before taking the field themselves at the 2002 NCAA College World Series.

The Irish coaching staff of Wally Widelski, Brian O'Connor, Paul Mainieri and Dusty Lepper poses in front of the scoreboard at Rosenblatt Stadium just before practice. A group of Irish players shoot a promo for ESPN that will be aired during the College World Series. Notre Dame fans come in many sizes at the College World Series in Omaha, Neb.

Junior leftfielder Brian Stavisky takes a few swings in the batting cage at Thursday's one-hour practice session. Pitcher Ryan Kalita gives a fan his signature at Thursday's autograph session. Matt Laird and the Irish had a full day of activities on Thursday as they had to meet with ESPN to shoot video promos to be aired during the week before heading to practice. Once practice ended, all eight teams participated in a two-hour autograph session. After showering, the Irish then returned to Rosenblatt Stadium for a barbecue, followed by the opening ceremonies which included a parade of teams, sky divers, fireworks and a a few words from keynote speaker Tommy Lasorda.

Fans line the walkway as the Irish prepare to make their way on the field for the Parade of Teams. Senior Matt Buchmeier carried the Notre Dame flag and led his team on the field during the Parade of Teams during the opening ceremonies. Freshman pitcher Chris Niesel, who pitched the Irish to a 3-1 victory over Florida State last Monday to earn a trip to the College Wolrd Series, is interviewed during Thursday's opening ceremonies by ESPN's Dave Ryan.