Making the trek to Florida usually means rest and leisure are forthcoming, but the Lady Pioneers are heading to Panama City on a business trip. Warren County only has one thing on its itinerary - win games.

The Lady Pioneers will open play in the Marlin Christmas Classic in Panama City Thursday at 2:30 p.m. with  a matchup against the host Arnold High School.

"The girls are so excited. These are special trips they will remember for a lifetime," said coach Shea Panter. "It's a great experience. We're very thankful to the booster club for helping make this happen."

One of eight teams in the tournament, which features schools from five different states, the Lady Pioneers will have their hands full. Coach Panter knows the tournament field is competitive and believes it can only help her team as the district season begins soon.

"There are some really athletic teams in this tournament," said Panter. "I hope to go down there and win it to give us confidence for upcoming district play."

Warren County carries an 8-5 record into the tournament. The Lady Pioneers piled up most of the victories during a six-game winning streak after starting 0-2. Warren County has been 2-3 since, including a loss in its latest outing in Cannon County before Christmas.

Arnold High School has been playing host to the Marlin Classic for 13 years and the Lady Marlins come into play at 3-8. With a victory, Warren County would advance to the semifinals and meet the winner of a matchup between Pleasant Grove (AL) and South Paulding (GA). The Lady Pioneeers are guaranteed three games in the bracket and will play once a day from Dec. 28-30.

Other teams in the bracket include Alma Bryant (AL), Libery High School (VA), East Hamilton (TN) and North Paulding (GA).