The two local Babe Ruth All-Star teams - playing under the name of Cherokee Athletics - hope to put on quite a show for the local fans.

The Cherokee Athletics 15 year old and under all-star team began play Thursday night against District 1 at the Cherokee County Youth Sports Complex.

The Cherokee Athletics 13 year old allstars will begin play today at 8 p.m. against James Island.

The local 13 year old all star team might have the easier road with only three teams competing for the crown, including James Island and West Ashley.

Manager Tim Blackwell said pitching will determine how far his team will go.

"If our pitching can hold up, we have fairly good offense and defense," he said.

Evan McCurry is the team's ace, with Will Byars at shortstop, Grayson McCraw at first base, Jacob Gibson at second and a platoon of Aaron Irvin and Clay Phillips at third.

Josh Tate, Bradley White, Thomas Mabry, Bradley Perry and Josh Porter will play the outfield.

Kamon Carroll will be behind the plate.

The local 15 year old all stars are coached by Terry Belue. They'll be led by Jaylen Miller, Tyler Belue and Arron White.

The teams competing for the 15 year old and under state crown include James Island, District 1, Belton, Anderson, Goose Creek, Iva and Cherokee Athletics.

Admission is $5 at the field.

BABE RUTH ALL-STAR STATE TOURNAMENT

The Cherokee Athletics 13 year old all stars play James Island today at 8 p.m. The championship game is slated for Sunday, with the winner

advancing to the regional in Pulaski, Tenn.

The Cherokee Athletics 15 and under year

old all stars began play Thursday night. The title game is set for Monday, with the winner advancing to the regional in Lumberton, N.C.