Rob Rushing has one word to describe his 10-year-old Concordia Parish Dixie Youth All-Star team — talented.

Rushing’s squad has the perfect opportunity to display their skills when its hosts the District 5 tournament starting today at the Vidalia Recreational Complex.

“It is a great group of boys,” Rushing said. “We are looking forward to it.”

Games between the district’s 10 teams begin at 11 a.m. with Concordia slated for its first game of the tournament at 7 p.m.

Rushing said while he thinks competition will be strong, he would choose his team any day.

The top two teams are guaranteed a ticket to the state tournament, while the third place team will also likely advance.

“This will be the third year this team has been together,” he said. “We have depth so we can swap things up.”

Of his 12-member group, Rushing said six players pitch consistently. He also said he often utilizes the strength of four different catchers.

“Those are two major positions,” he said. “We have a very good defense. Our pitchers have good control and speed.”

Concordia can protect the ball, but it can also hit, Rushing said.

“We try our very best when we are batting. Ours kids are very disciplined at the plate,” he said. “They don’t swing overhead or at balls in the dirt. They don’t give the opposing pitcher a lot of help.”

While Rushing said his team is well developed, anything can happen.

“It depends on which group of 10 year olds show up,” he said. “They may show up and play unbelievably, or they may show up and look like they have never played baseball a day in their life. We had rain delays, so by the time we had their first (all-star) practice they probably hadn’t played in three weeks. They were rusty again. But, the other team could very well have a bad day just like we can.”

No matter the outcome, Rushing said he is excited for the event.

“It’s a big honor to host,” he said. “It’s going to be a good time. We probably have the most beautiful park in the state. I hope we have a good showing.”