A group of All-Stars from the Majors Division in the Goochland Youth Athletic Association (GYAA) began a journey they hope will end in a familiar place— the Dixie League State Playoffs.

  However, the first step was winning the league tournament that took place over the weekend and through Wednesday at Hidden Rock Park. The 12 All-Stars began play Friday night, but lightning postponed that match until Saturday.

  This year’s team is comprised of young men who know something about post season play. Two years ago, a majority of the players on the team went to the state finals. Team manager Jay Poling thinks that experience might provide just the extra spark needed to take the next step. “The great thing about this team is that they’ve played a lot as a group,” Poling said. “The nucleus of this team went to the state championship two years ago, and we’re just trying to get back.”

  Poling also said the team should benefit from his experienced assistants assembled for the playoffs.

  “I’m really excited about our coaching staff,” Poling said. “We’ve got a lot of guys that have come together to work with this team. They’ve played a lot of baseball and that experience should help us,” he added. Those assistants include Diego Ramon, Ed Cutchins and Troy Mills.

  This year’s All-Star squad composed of 11-12 year-olds features a balanced attack with an emphasis on fielding.

  “We have a good hitting group but defense is actually our strongest point,” Poling said.

  Tournament director Lon Ragland said the tournament could not take place without a solid group of dedicated volunteers from GYAA. “They’ve done a tremendous job getting things ready for tonight,” he said on opening night.

  He is also pleased with a lineup that should provide some first class competition on the diamond. Teams participating include Goochland, Amelia, Scottsville, Cumberland and Buckingham.

  League Commissioner Nancy Trice said major kudos are also in order for a dedicated grounds crew headed by Scott Von Schilling. “They did an awesome job,” Trice said.

  Ragland added that Von Schilling did everything from painting backstops to changing light bulbs on the field. “He did a wonderful job.”

  The top two finishers from the double elimination tournament advance to the state playoffs.

  This year’s Goochland Majors All-Star team includes Seth Trice, Coleman Duty, Heath Parrish, Reid Chenault, Hunter Mills and Richard Johnson.

  Also playing on this year’s team are Edward Blake, Joseph Cutchins, Colby Noel, Walker Poling, Bryce Ramon and D’Jon Shelton IV.

  At press time, Goochland remained undefeated, recording an 18-1 thumping of Amelia on Monday night. The team played for the championship on Wednesday, against either Amelia or Buckingham.