Several area high school teams will begin their postseasons today as sectional tournament play begins.
All games are double elimination with the winner advancing to next week's regional semifinals.
At Summit Park, the Class AAA, Region I Section 3 tournament begins with a best-of-three series. Robert C. Byrd (11-7) will take on Big 10 rival Philip Barbour. The doubleheader will begin at 4:30 p.m. The Eagles won both games this season in shortened contests due to the 10-run rule. Robert C. Byrd coach Larry Snider hopes that's something his kids won't dwell on today.
"As a coach you always hope the kids don't lose their focus, especially now," Snider said. "The idea is that this is what it's all about. This is when it counts. Hopefully, we don't let our other two games effect the way we play."
Snider said he will likely go with either junior Missy Arnett or freshman Maggie Davis. Arnett was the winning pitcher in both Robert C. Byrd wins this season over Philip Barbour, but Snider said Davis has been strong down the final stretch of the season.
Philip Barbour will likely counter with Sarah Jones.
In other Region I play, NCAC rivals Buckhannon-Upshur and Lewis County will meet at Lewis County High School in another best-of-three series. First pitch is set for 4:30 p.m.
In the case of a split in either game, the championship will be held tomorrow at the same sites.
In Class AA, Liberty will look to rebound from Tuesday's 9-1 loss to Ritchie County in the Region II, Section 4 finals. The Mountaineers will look to avoid elimination when they face the Rebels to day at 5 p.m. at Ritchie County High School.
In other Region II play, Big 10 rivals Bridgeport and South Harrison will meet at South Harrison High School today at 3 p.m. in a doubleheader.
