Clarkdale Classic has strong field

By By Marty Stamper / EMG sports assistant
Aug. 6, 2004
Eight area slow-pitch softball teams will open the 2004 seasons in the inaugural Clarkdale Classic Saturday at Sammie Davidson Complex.
Some teams will play two games, while others will play three.
Some of the day's pairings find Class 1A Mize taking on Class 5A Harrison Central, the largest school in the state. Class 2A Enterprise will also play Harrison Central. Mize faces another 5A school in Moss Point, while 1A Stringer takes on 4A Northeast Lauderdale.
Four-time defending Class 4A state champion New Hope highlights the card, along with 2003 Class 5A state runner-up Moss Point and 2003 Class 2A state runner-up Clarkdale.
New Hope only lost two starters from last year's powerhouse that finished No. 1 in the final poll by The Jackson Clarion-Ledger.
Roberson expects another good year from his team as well.
One key matchup finds New Hope taking on Moss Point at 11:30 a.m.
Defending Class 5A state champion Grenada was a last-minute dropout as was Richton. That still leaves a lot of good teams.