NATCHEZ — The Natchez-Adams Girls Softball League has the fruition of its sewn seeds since it decided to compete in the Dixie softball league this summer.

The Dixie league allows each age group to have an all-star team, something the Natchez league implemented to attract more girls to play — and it worked.

Not only did more girls sign up, but the Natchez league was also able to send five all-star teams to state competitions this weekend.

The 9- and 10-year-olds will be the first Natchez softball team to play in a state tournament at 6 p.m. Friday in Magee.

The 13 through 15-year-olds will also play in Magee at 8 p.m. Friday.

The Darlings and 6-year-old coach pitch teams will both play in Ellisville at 6:45 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., respectively.

The 11- and 12-year-olds, coached by Kendra McIntosh, will play its first game at 4:30 p.m. Friday in Ellisville as well.

David Brown, who coaches the 9- and 10-year-old team, said it was a successful first year for the league, and they hope to carry that success in the state tournament.

“It’s the first year in this (Dixie) league, and almost every age group is going to the state tournament,” Brown said. “It’s pretty awesome.”

Brown said he hopes every team, including his own, makes the most out of their first state tournament appearance and represent Natchez well.

“We got a good group of girls,” Brown said. “They have been working hard. We’re going to have a good time and have the opportunity to see some competition. They will be ready.”

Eric Jackson, the Darlings head coach, said the inclement weather the past week has hindered their practice schedule, but he is confident his team will play off its strength this weekend.

“Our strong suit is our offense,” Jackson said. “We hit really well, and if they have their head in the game and can put runs on the board, we can compete well, but if we can’t hit, that will be a big problem. Our weakness is our defense, and we spent a lot of time trying to practice it.”