Enough rain fell Thursday to postpone Jemison’s game at the Dizzy Dean 12-year-old all-star baseball, but it wasn’t enough to dampen the team’s spirits.

Jemison was extended an invitation to the World Series in Southaven, Miss. after defeating defending state and World Series champion Northport National, 11-5, on Wednesday.

Coach Tommy Lenoir said he thinks the trip would mark the first time a Jemison team, regardless of age, has represented the state in a national tournament.

“It’s a huge, huge honor for our kids,” Lenoir said. “They’ve been practicing since the first week of March; they deserve it. So many people have put in so much—it makes it worth it.”

Lenoir said the top two or three teams from each state tournament are usually invited to the Dizzy Dean World Series, but Jemison drew an offer while there are still four teams left in the state tournament, being played in Columbiana.

The World Series is scheduled for next weekend, but, first, Jemison has a chance to win a state title.

The team would have to come from behind against Jackson County, who took a 5-0 lead Thursday with two outs and a runner on second base before rain forced postponement of the game. The game will be resumed at 5:45 p.m. Friday.

In the win over Northport, twin brothers Phillip and Will Lenoir both hit home runs.

Logan Ray was 2-for-3 with a ground rule double, and Conner Nason also went 2-for-3.

Phillip Lenoir and Trevor Wallace each pitched three innings, allowing a combined six hits and two walks while striking out five.

Lenoir said the team will need help raising money for the trip to the World Series and said anyone interested in helping should call him at 688-1115.

“We’ve got a lot to do, but we’re excited about being able to do this for our kids,” Lenoir said.