Laurel- Team Arkansas was represented in the 12U Dixie World Series by athletes from Hope and other surrounding areas this past week in Laurel, Mississippi.

Arkansas began bracket play winning their first two games, beating Tennessee 11-0 and advancing to play the host team from Laurel, where they won 13-4, as they scored runs at a high clip throughout the tournament.

The first two wins, set up a showdown with Texas. Arkansas gave up some runs late, dropping a tough one to Texas 10-8. Dropping to the losers side of the bracket, this group showed a lot of resiliency, beating another Mississippi team 15-6. After a short break they won their next game 7-1 over South Carolina to advance within one game of the Championship.

With Texas waiting in the championship game, Arkansas and Alabama squared off. A pitching duel took place in this one, but Alabama handed Arkansas a hard-fought loss, 2-1. Arkansas left with 3rd place after a great week of softball.

The team was made up of Sawyer Burns, Emry Clark, Zaiden Gammage, Kinsleigh Herr, Paisley Hughes, Jazlynn Jetton, McKenna Marshall, Tynlee Neathery, Kinsley Pack, Brielle Shurtleff, Blakelyn Ward, and Gianna Witherspoon. Coaches were Roy Jetton, Josh Marshall, and Haley Neathery.

Great showing by this squad as they represented our great state in an excellent manner.