NATCHEZ — It will be a mix of young and old competing for tennis state championships today in Jackson.

Natchez High has four teams competing for individual state championships, running the gamut from eighth graders to seniors.

Bulldogs who will be playing for individual state titles are Erie Wilson in girls singles, Whitney Jackson and Valencia Bonds in No. 2 girls doubles, Norman Mosby and Montero Bolden in No. 2 boys doubles and Antwan Ross and LaKeisha Washington in mixed doubles.

Natchez assistant coach Margaret Beesley said it’s quite impressive to have three of Natchez’s five doubles teams playing for state titles.

“The doubles teams have done spectacularly,” Beesley said. “I’m very proud of them.”

The mixed doubles team consists of seniors Washington and Ross, and while Washington played in the state title match in No. 2 girls doubles last year, this is Ross’ first time at state.

“Antwan has been playing with us four years and this is a goal he set for himself,” Beesley said.

“When he defeated the team in district (to advance to state) he was elated no doubt.”

Natchez’s other two doubles teams are full of youth.

The girls doubles team has two eighth graders in Jackson and Bonds while freshmen Mosby and Bolden make up the boys doubles team.

“We are very blessed to have them coming up and look forward to them having success for years to come,” Beesley said. “Hopefully this will put a little spotlight on tennis at Natchez High and get more kids interested.

“It will definitely bring some good publicity to the program.”

Championship matches begin today at Parham Bridges Country Club in Jackson, with the first match beginning at 1 p.m.

Another match will begin at 2 p.m. and the final two will start at 3 p.m.