The visiting team of economic turmoil has hit a grand slam in the Miss-Lou.

For the first time in decades, the Natchez Dixie Youth program is struggling to meet its registration goals.

Here, in the heart of the South, in baseball heaven, the leagues are hunting players.

We never thought it could happen.

Dixie Youth and T.M. Jennings Little League organizers think the economy is to blame.

Dixie Youth Registration is $75, plus the extra costs that come along with playing, like buying uniform pants.

T.M. Jennings registration is $35.

When times are tight, the extras get cut.

But youth sports are so much more than a game. These children learn teamwork, responsibility, respect and more.

Years of Miss-Lou children have gotten a large part of their education on a sports field, and we hope that aspect of local life never goes away.

For the parents crunching numbers and making the tough decisions, we know cutting the things your children love is tough.

But maybe this cut is worth reconsideration. Dixie Youth has extended its registration deadline until Saturday, and T.M. Jennings has several more registration days planned.

After all, the registration fee is a one-time cost for a lifetime lesson.