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Greenville’s Dixie Debs are headed to Alexandria, Louisiana Thursday, to compete for the Dixie World Series Championship, July 28-Aug. 3. The girls defeated Taylor/Rehobeth twice in the Dixie State Championship earlier this month, securing their spot for a run at the top spot.

The Debs are off to represent Greenville, and the entire state, beginning Saturday morning against Chester County, Tennessee. The tournament will include eight teams, representing seven states.

Coach Bruce Branum said the close knit team of girls are very excited about the adventure ahead. He said the team and some parents plan to travel by bus, and stick to a tight schedule.

“This team of young ladies are talented and most can play multiple positions,” Branum said. “They have committed themselves to our team philosophy, which is ‘Be loose, be cool, play aware, and never give up!’ Each school in Butler County is represented by one or more players on this team.”

Greenville High School Junior and third baseman Layla McCall said softball is her favorite sport, and she gives it her all. 

“I am extremely proud of myself and my teammates for making it this far,” McCall said. “If we stay focused and encourage each other, we can bring home the championship.” 

Coach Ann Steiner Gregory said she is extremely proud of the team, and what they have accomplished thus far this season. 

“They are each incredibly talented athletes, who have come together in a short period of time, to make something big happen,” Gregory said. “Our main expectation is to leave our best efforts on the field.”

Branum and Gregory both agreed, there will be time for fun this weekend, but the focus is to win. 

“These girls know they are capable of doing so, and we are definitely preparing to win,” Gregory said. “The community has been very generous in donating money, gifts, and well wishes. We definitely feel the support and love from Butler County for sure.”

Veronica Edwards, mother of GHS junior and all-star Sy’Nya Edwards, has been very active in raising funds for the team.

“The girls are very excited to be headed to the World Series,” Edwards said. “We are looking forward to the experience, along with team bonding. We know that we’re up against some great competition, but we want the girls to get the job done, by never giving up, and finishing strong. Donations are still being accepted, so that parents and families can all enjoy this memorable experience with the team.”

Branum said he felt the team had a good chance at the championship title. 

“If we keep errors and close plays to a minimum, and our bats and pitching solid, we have a strong chance to bring the Dixie World Series Championship back to Greenville.”