McKenzie School head coach Tony Norris is hoping the old adage that there’s no substitute for experience is true.

That’s because Norris’ Tigers, who open their season on Thursday at Florala, have a wealth of experience on this year’s roster, which includes six seniors.

“I think the strength of our team will be our depth,” Norris said. “I have several kids that have been around me for a couple of years at least and know what I expect.

“The biggest thing we have to replace from last year is leadership, but I expect our group of seniors this year to be able to take that challenge on and do fine with it.”

McKenzie’s seniors include Harper Vinson, Jeffrey Fuller, Nicarius Petterson, Branden Miller, Roscoe Moorhead and Chandler Gipson.

Norris said he’s preaching fundamentals to his squad as it prepares for its 2014 campaign.

“There are several areas that we have to be good at in order to be successful,” Norris said. “First, we have to throw strikes. I tell my guys all the time we can’t defend walks. Second, we have to make the routine outs when we have the chance. Finally, we have to be good at situational hitting and get some timely hits to go along with the situational hitting.”

The Tigers will chase win No. 1 Thursday when they take on the Wildcats. Junior varsity action will begin at 4 p.m. with the varsity game slated to follow.