NATCHEZ — The Natchez High Lady Bulldogs are gearing up for a big celebration after capturing their second straight MHSAA Class 5A State Championship.

The Natchez-Adams School District will celebrate the Lady Bulldogs win against West Jones High School with a community parade and banquet.

“The coaching staff and team have shown not only that their win was not by chance, but also that they are the true champions because they won back to back,” NASD Superintendent Frederick Hill said. “They deserve more celebration, and we want the community to join them.”

The parade will take place at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 1, in downtown Natchez on the normal parade route of Franklin and Main streets.

NASD public relations coordinator Steven Richardson said all community organizations, schools, bike and ATV clubs and other entities are invited to join the parade lineup for $25.

Those who wish to participate in the parade must visit Natchez High School’s main office to sign up and pay the $25 fee by noon on Friday, March 27.

Natchez head coach Alphaka Moore said she is looking forward to the parade and is currently working on float designs for the team’s big day.

“I think the team definantly deserves the recognition,” Moore said. “I really appreciate it and the rest of the girls know that they have done something great.”

Also in honor of the Lady Bulldogs’ victory, official championship T-shirts are currently on sale at all NASD schools. For T-shirt order forms, visit the NASD’s Facebook page.

Youth extra-small to adult extra-large shirts are $10 and adult 2x and up are $12.

Payments can only be made with cash or money orders before the shirt is printed, Richardson said.

The deadline for T-shirt purchases will be at noon on Thursday, March 26.

All T-shirts will be ready in time for the parade.

Lastly, the Lady Bulldogs will celebrate their victory with a banquet at 6 p.m. on May 15 at the Steckler Multi-purpose building at Natchez High School. Tickets are $20 and will go on sale Monday, March 23, at Natchez High School.

Only 300 tickets will be sold.

All proceeds from the parade, T-shirts and banquet tickets will go toward the purchase of championship rings for the team and coaching staff, Richardson said.

The Lady Bulldogs will also accept monetary donations from the community for the rings. To donate, call Natchez High School at 601-445-2865.

Lady Bulldog Skylar Morgan was named the Most Valuable Player of the game after recording 15 points and 11 rebounds.