Rising seventh- and eighth-grade girls wanting to play softball for Dawson County need to be ready for tryouts by the end of July.

"Come out, work hard and show what kind of skills you have," said Head Coach Jeff Compton.

Tryouts will take place at Riverview Middle School for both Dawson Middle and Riverview Middle students from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. July 30 and 31.

Last year was the first year that both schools combined to have only one softball team for the county.

Reflecting on last year's team, Compton said: "We had a very successful season; second for the season, and second for the region."

All practices and home games will take place at Riverview Middle.

Having one team, "the county has a better opportunity to compete," he said

Compton, who is looking forward to the upcoming season, has a few returning players already signed up from both schools.

"I'm excited," he said.

Practice will begin Aug. 5. For more information, email Compton at jcompton@dawson.k12.ga.us.