The end of July is quickly approaching, which means we are not that far removed from the first day of classes for various school districts across East Texas. For many, the end of the Summer break means it's time to get into the 'Back to School' frame of mind.  But, that's definitely not the case for everyone.

There are quite a few boys and girls across the Pineywoods that are thinking baseball and softball.  That's because several area teams still have things to prove as they travel to their respective world series competitions.  One of those teams will be representing Onalaska at the upcoming Dixie SweeTees X-Play World Series, which will be played at the Ward 10 Recreation Area in Tioga, Louisiana, near Alexandria. The tournament will take place from July 29 through August 4.

This team from Onalaska recently captured the State Championship for Texas. This 6U team is comprised of 4, 5, and 6-year-old girls.  I remember when my kids played tee ball at that age. The biggest challenge, at times, was trying to gently convince them that blowing the dandelions or twirling in circles needed to wait until after the game.

These young ladies from Onalaska, however, have been focused on the job at hand.  I'm sure there have been the occasional distractions, but you don't get to be state champs without displaying some grit and integrity. Keep in mind that these girls have been practicing several times a week throughout a summer that has made the softball field feel like the self-clean setting on an oven.

Here's a look at the stand-out athletes that will be representing Onalaska, Polk County, the Pineywoods, and the entire state of Texas.

Contributed Photo/Amanda Williamson
Contributed Photo/Amanda Williamson
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Contributed Photo/Amanda Williamson
Contributed Photo/Amanda Williamson
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Back row - Paige Cowart, Amanda Williamson, Wendy Wacker, Alan Wacker. Middle Row - Whitten Hodge, Saydee Reeves, Avery Cowart, Layla Williamson, River Golson, Morgan McCool, Front Row - Skylar Smith, Kenzie Purcell, Keena De La Cerda, Avie Burks, Leslie Williamson.

Deep East Texas Athletes who Qualified for the 2022 State Track & Field Meet

Quite a few area athletes have punched their tickets for the 2022 UIL Texas State Track and Field Meet. Here are photos of some of those athletes

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