The Demopolis 10U Cal Ripken team will not have to travel far for its state tournament run.

In fact, it won’t have to travel at all.

“We are looking forward to being able to sleep in our own bed and have our fans out here,” said 10U head coach Scott Parten.

Having been to state the past three years, the boys know what is at stake and are prepping to better themselves.

“These guys have gone out since they were 7-8 and every year they have made it to the state tournament. They know what to expect. Being at home just makes it a little easier.”

While Parten has liked what he has seen from his squad so far, he knows that there are always improvements to be made.

“We have to come out and hit earlier in the game. We can’t sit back and wait before making our move. We waited against Linden (in game one Monday) and it almost cost us.”

Parten is using his off time to allow some of the pitchers that were not able to throw in the district tournament to get some work on the mound in scrimmage games.

The boys will have eight days to prepare and get things refined before the tournament officially begins at the Sports-Plex.

Next Friday the parents will hold a banquet for all of the participating teams, welcoming them to Demopolis.

Once action commences on the field, Parten isn’t going to be too worried about his squad.

“We are going to be ready to play.” Parten said

“Being here before takes all of the pressure off of them. Now it is about just going out there, having fun and playing well.”

The 10U boys will be in action beginning next Saturday in the four-day tournament.