By: Matthew Phillips 

The Troy 7U Rookie All-Stars represented their community proudly in the state tournament this past weekend.

Although the team fell short in the state finals, their performance reflected a strong work ethic and team unity. 

“The kids’ work ethic as seven-year-olds is unbelievable,” said coach Chase Avant. “We would always practice, and there was never any complaining. It was always upbeat and just staying positive.

“The kids and the parents in this group have created a close-knit, family-type atmosphere, and that is one of the things I’m most proud of.”

The Troy 7U Rookie All-Stars started strong at the beginning of the tournament, with a dominant 17-2 win over the Beauregard 7U All-Stars. They then faced tough losses against the AUM Pre-Minor Rookie All-Stars (1-13) and Municipal Park 7U All-Stars (3-20), ending their run in the tournament. 

The team included players Barrett Precise, Drake Griffith, Trace Sikes, Alex Ray Sanders, Porter Sanders, Eastyn Bailey, Tanner Oakes, Gideon Essien, De’Vahn Davis, Nash Avant, and Granger Stephens.

The team was led by coaches Chase Avant, Will Sanders, Jeffrey Griffith, and Patrick Stephens.