The Bogalusa 13-14 Little League All-Stars are heading to Lafayette this weekend for the 2016 Little League International Tournament.

“It’s a pleasure to take these kids up there because they’ve worked really hard,” coach Spade Morris said. “It’s going to be a challenge. The districts have improved over the years because of travel ball and year round baseball. The kids have a chance to get more play in. I think we’re ready. The kids are eager and we’re going to see what they can do.”

At stake is the opportunity to play in the Southwestern Regional in Rio Rancho, N.M.

That tournament is set for Aug. 4-9.

Morris said the key will be to win the first game and stay in the winners’ bracket.

Bogalusa opens the competition tonight at 8 p.m. against Avoyelles American Little League.

The tournament features a five-team double-elimination bracket.

Each game is seven innings.