Johnston County 12U All-Stars Open State Tournament Monday In Archer Lodge

ARCHER LODGE, N.C. — Fresh off one of the most dominant district tournament performances in recent memory, the Johnston County Little League 12U All-Star softball team will begin its pursuit of a North Carolina state championship Monday night when the North Carolina Little League 12U Softball State Tournament gets underway in Archer Lodge.

Johnston County advanced to the state tournament after overwhelming its district competition, winning three consecutive games by scores of 17-0, 22-0 and 22-0 while not allowing a single run.

The local all-stars will open tournament play at 7:30 p.m. Monday, July 6, against Blue Ridge Mountains Little League at Archer Lodge Town Park.

The eight-team state tournament, which runs July 6-10, will bring district champion softball teams from across North Carolina to Johnston County. Teams representing Pitt County, Mallard Creek, Rowan, Forest City and Blue Ridge Mountains will compete alongside Johnston County for the opportunity to capture the state title.

The state champion will advance to the Little League Softball Southeast Regional, with the regional winner earning a berth in the Little League Softball World Series in Greenville.

Tournament officials say they are excited to welcome players, coaches and families to Archer Lodge, where the town’s two-field softball complex features a playground, modern restroom facilities and a large covered pavilion for spectators. Games will be played at Archer Lodge Town Park at 2636 Castleberry Road.

Johnston County enters the tournament with plenty of momentum after outscoring its district opponents 61-0 and will enjoy the advantage of playing before a hometown crowd throughout the week.