State Junior Legion teams square off in Jackson for finals

The Jackson junior legion baseball team will make history today by participating in the Junior Legion State Tournament for the first time in its eight years.

Jackson didn't have to qualify for the tournament because it's the host, another first for the program.

The other four teams in the tournament are the winners from the four zone tournaments played earlier this month. They will compete in a double-elimination format.

Jackson finished tied for second in its district, while other teams had to finish first to qualify for the zone tournaments.

Tournament director Gerald Adams said the improvements made on the Jackson fields helped the city's chances, and he said the tournament will be a plus for the city.

"We're all very happy to have it," he said.

Jackson was picked to host the tournament after submitting a bid early last winter.

Events begin today with a presentation by the American Legion color guard followed by Jackson Mayor Paul Sander throwing out the first pitch. Then, Willard will play Liberty in the tournament opener at 5:30 p.m., and Jackson will face Zone 4 winner Ballwin at 8:30 p.m.

Zone 1 winner Kirksville received a bye and will take on the Jackson/Liberty winner at 1 p.m. Friday.

The tournament will wrap up with the championship Sunday.