By JUSTIN SMITH | The Selma Times-Journal

Three Selma All-Star teams have punched their ticket to the state tournament, while several others are still playing for their shot.

The 9- and 10-year-old Selma all stars and two separate teams of 13- and 14-year-olds are both heading to the state tournament.

The 11- and 12-year-olds and 7- and 8-year-old teams are still trying to get into their age group’s tournament.

Pepsi, one of Selma’s 13- and 14-year-old teams, reached the state tournament with a win over Quality Trophy on Wednesday with a score of 5-2.

“It’s all about pitching,” said Pepsi head coach Jerome Hand. “Our guys were just a little better than theirs when it mattered most. We had to dodge a lot of rain this season, and we didn’t get to practice that much, but our players did the job when it was crunch time. I’m very proud of them all.”

Both 13- and 14-year-old teams will play in the state tournament in mid July in Dothan.

Selma’s 9- and 10-year-old all-star team is set to play in their state tournament in Troy on July 13. They beat Thomasville to remain in the running for a championship trophy.

The 7- and 8-year-old team will play on July 7 at 4:30 p.m. for a chance at the state tournament. The 11- and 12-year-old team’s game for a state tournament breath has been postponed to Friday afternoon if the weather permits.

The ultimate goal for all the teams is The World Series. Selma’s 15 and 16 year old team is set to play in the World Series after a win against Eufaula earlier in June.

Their next game will be on July 20 in Independence, Louisiana.

All teams are still encouraging members of the Selma community to come out and support the youth during this invaluable experience.