The MHSAA State Slowpitch Softball playoffs begin today as several local teams participate in the march to the championship finals in Jackson.

Area teams entered in the playoffs are West Lincoln, Bogue Chitto, Brookhaven, Wesson, Lawrence County, Franklin County and North Pike. Each series will be played in a best-of-3 format.

West Lincoln (19-5-1, 6-0),  coached by Andrew Redd, finished in first place in Region 7-2A. The Lady Bears will host the opening round of the 1A playoffs against the Bay Springs Lady Bulldogs. Game time is 5 p.m.

Bogue Chitto (14-12, 3-1),  coached by Scott Leggett, placed second in the Region 8-1A race. The Lady Cats begin their march for a championship on the road against the Sebastopol Lady Bobcats. Game time is 4 p.m.

Brookhaven (16-9, 10-0),  coached by Chad Walker, finished in first place in the Region 3-5A race. They look to make an impact in the 5A race. The Lady Panthers entertains the Meridian Lady Wildcats. Game time is 4 p.m.

Wesson (18-7, 5-1),  coached by Jackie Johnson, finished in first place in Region 7-3A action. The Lady Cobras are prepare to showcase their talents in the 3A race, hosting the St. Patrick Fighting Lady Irish. Game time is 5 p.m.

Franklin County (8-16, 4-2),  coached by Dana Smith, is eager to have a successful outing in the 3A race. The Lady Bulldogs finished runners-up in Region 7-3A and will travel to the Perry Central Lady Bulldogs. Action begins at 5 p.m.

Lawrence County (20-3-1, 5-1),  directed by coach Meleah Howard, finished in first place in their Region 7-4A race. The Lady Cougars hosts the Poplarville Lady Hornets. Game time is 5 p.m.

North Pike (23-4, 5-1),  coached by Sonya Wallace, claimed second place in the Region 7-4A race and will be looking for success in the playoffs. The Lady Jaguars visits the Purvis Lady Tornadoes. Game time is 4 p.m. in Purvis.

Second round action is set for Saturday. Third round/ South State Championships will be next Tuesday. State championships are scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 26, at Freedom Ridge Park in Ridgeland.