The Mississippi Gulf Coast Lady Bulldogs will be heading to Clinton Wednesday to compete for a national title.
The Lady Bulldogs won the state title two weeks ago in Ellisville, beating Jones County and East Central.
Last weekend, the team won the region despite falling to Jones County in the first game. The Lady Bulldogs came back to win their next four games against Louisiana State University Eunice, Jones County and had back to back wins against East Central.
The team will be heading to Clinton Wednesday to compete against 16 other teams with the championship game taking place on Saturday.
Head Coach Kenneth Long has a very young team with only five sophomores and 12 freshmen, however Long said his team is full of winners.
“In the fall we knew we had a special team, they have made me a better coach because they push so hard,” said Long.
Picayune has a special interest in the Lady Bulldogs, because one of their own plays on the team.
Jennifer Walker, shortstop for the Bulldogs, prepped under Coach Kristi Mitchell at Picayune Memorial High School.
Walker graduated last year, and according to Mitchell was always a special player.
“She gave 100 percent everyday in practice, definitely one of the hardest working players I have ever had,” said Mitchell.
Coach Long came out to see Walker play several times while she was still in high school, and immediately saw her potential.
“I was really impressed with her both as a player, and a person,” said Long. “She works hard every day, we were really fortunate to get her.”