In the outskirts of South Carolina, Andalusia 8 and under All-Stars coach Anthony Mikel was fading in and out of cell phone range Tuesday.

Mikel, along with the local softball team, were driving to play in the 2012 8U Babe Ruth Softball Southeast Regional Tournament in Greenville (Pitt County), N.C.

The regional tournament format begins with pool play starting today and ending tomorrow. There are 12 teams competing in the regional, and each team is guaranteed three games in pool play.

Bracket play will begin soon after pool play is done.

“The girls have been practicing and working hard,” Mikel said. “They have played and worked as a team to become one unit.  If we play hard, hit the ball and play well defensively, I believe that we will do well in the tournament.”

Additionally, Mikel said he wanted to thank all who have helped the team so far this season.

“I would like to thank all the players, parents and coaches for their hard work to get this far,” he said. “I would also like to thank the City of Andalusia (Department of) Leisure services for their support, and also every individual and business that made it possible for us to make this trip and give these girls this once-in-a-life-time opportunity.”

Andalusia earned its bid to play in the regional by winning the 8U state tournament title more than a week ago in Brewton.

The 8U softball team plays tonight at 5 p.m. and 9 p.m., and will end pool play tomorrow at 9 p.m.