The Charles Henderson Lady Trojans must put their stellar two-loss season in the rearview mirror as they prepare for the Class 5A area 3 tournament that begins today in Troy.

Because the Trojans were able to clinch the regular season area championship, they will have a first round bye and await the winner of Eufaula and Rehobeth.

“It’s a nerve racking time for a head coach,” said Trojans head coach Dyneshia Jones. “We always remind them that the record doesn’t mean anything right now. We are 0-0 right now.”

Although the Trojans are guaranteed a spot in the sub-regional tournament there are still plenty of things to play for when the game tips off Wednesday night. A win for the Trojans will mean the sub-regionals come to Troy. A loss means the Trojans will have to go on the road.

A year ago the Trojans fell early in the regional tournament.

“We lost and we were home quick,” Jones said. “I always tell them you can’t take anything for granted. We have to be ready for 32 minutes every game.”

After finishing the regular season losses to two 7A teams in Hoover and Jeff Davis, the Trojans know they will have a bulls-eye on their backs.

“Once you break down there are going to be just four teams that make it to Dothan,” Jones said. “Only the best four team are going to make it. It’s a big deal.”

Senior India Blakely will be expected to lead the squad.

“She is very important,” Jones said. “She has been around since the eighth grade. It’s a big deal. I want it for the team and I especially want it for India. She has worked hard and she is a player that I know wants it.”

Charles Henderson will play the winner of Eufaula and Rehobeth on Wednesday at 6 p.m. in Troy.