District 1-3A figures to be a battle between Benton, the defending district champ, and North DeSoto, last year's runner-up.

Benton returns all but one player from last year's state tournament team. Lady Tigers coach Michelle Owens, the 2006 All-City coach of the year, has moved Sarah Hill to shortstop and Bailey Woodward, a team leader, to third base.

All-City returnee Brittney Naron, the District 1-3A MVP, and power-hitter A.J. Jordan should also be key contributors.

Two returning All-Area players, pitcher Courtney McDaniel and center fielder Brooke Martin, lead North DeSoto.

"We've got a real tough schedule, but I think we're going to do OK," said North DeSoto coach Lori McFerren, whose program is adjusting to Class 3A ball after years in 2A.