Dallas County Senior-to-be Justin Hollis will represent Dixie Baseball at the USA Tournament of Stars in Joplin Mo. June 16-23.

Hollis, a pitcher and infielder, was chosen along with 17 other ball players from a group of 16-18 year-olds from 11 states.

Hollis and his new teammates participated in various baseball showcases from all over the south.

Coaches from the showcases nominate players who have excelled and shown higher than average baseball potential.

From 11 southern states, 182 players were nominated. Eighteen were chosen.

Hollis’ Dixie National Team will compete with other baseball organizations throughout the US during the tournament in Joplin.

When the tournament ends June 23, 20 players will be named to the Jr. National Baseball Team which will participate in the Pan American Games in Curacao and then go on to the 2004 World Junior Championship in Chinese Taipei.

Hollis played in the Southern Prospect Showcase in September of last year.

He had six base hits and five RBIs. He hit a 350-foot homer.

He played first, third and catcher.

He pitched five innings, didn’t allow a run and was named MVP of the showcase.

Now, Hollis will get to test himself against some of the best young baseball players in the country.