Double Coverage

By Jerome Bryant

High School Softball: Lady Hawks

High school softball is in full swing, and the Hardaway Lady Hawks have made a statement in their home opener with a dominant 21-1 victory over Westover High School on Aug. 13, after losing its first game Aug. 12 to Manchester 16-3. 

The Lady Hawks, showing no mercy against Westover, were led by Kei'Myah Neal, who was unstoppable at the plate with three solid hits. 

Shelby Huff was another standout, blasting two doubles that brought in four runs and energized the team. 

Reyana Heard joined the action with her first hit of the season, while Daisia Crutchfield, Temperance Stoneback, and Jayden Hamby all celebrated their first-ever high school hits—an unforgettable moment for these young athletes. 

On the mound, Kamiya Whittlesey was in control, pitching with confidence and securing the win for the Lady Hawks. They repeated this win against Westover when the two teams met for the second time on Aug. 15. 

The ladies will face a challenging doubleheader against Manchester at home at 4 and 6 p.m. on Aug. 19. 

Mark your calendars, because the Lady Hawks are just getting started, and they’re a team to watch this season.

High School Softball: Lady Blue Devils

Not to be outdone, the Columbus High Lady Blue Devils are making waves of their own, currently on a three-game winning streak that has the entire city buzzing. 

Their recent victories were a masterclass in dominance, as they hammered Woodward Academy 9-0 on Aug. 13, followed by a 9-1 victory against Lamar County, bringing their season record to an impressive 5-1. 

The Lady Blue Devils’ success is fueled by the explosive play of Maya Bagsby, who already has racked up four home runs this season, leaving opponents scrambling to figure out how to contain her. 

Jayla Lockhart also has been a force to be reckoned with, adding two home runs to the team’s tally. 

The Lady Blue Devils have become a powerhouse, and their next challenge comes Aug. 21 when they travel to Lamar County for a 5:30 p.m. showdown. 

With the way they’re playing, you won’t want to miss a single pitch as they continue their quest for greatness.

Columbus Youth Football

Columbus Youth Football has extended its registration deadline to Sunday, Aug.18, giving aspiring young athletes one last chance to join the action. 

The registration event will take place at the Fifth Quarter Event Center, located at 4679 Buena Vista Road from 2 to 6 p.m. 

Spots are limited. So, if your child has dreams of hitting the gridiron or cheering on the sidelines, make sure to contact the league presidents for more information. 

This is a fantastic opportunity for young players to get involved, learn the game, and become part of the storied tradition of Columbus football.

High School Football: Carver

Last Friday’s preseason football games provided a taste of excitement to come, and fans were not disappointed. 

The Carver Tigers’ squared off against Lee County at Odis Spencer Stadium, and the game was nothing short of a rollercoaster. 

Lee County came out strong, quickly putting 14 points on the board, but the Tigers showed their resilience by clawing their way back into the game, narrowing the gap to 14-13. 

Just as the momentum was shifting in Carver’s favor, the game was halted due to weather, leaving fans wondering what could have been. But if this game is any indication, the Tigers are in for an electrifying season.

High School Football: Northside

Over at Northside, the Patriots put on a clinic against the Spencer Greenwaves, cruising to a 38-6 victory. 

Senior quarterback Caden Clay was in top form, throwing two touchdown passes and demonstrating why he’s one of the top players to watch this season. 

The Patriots dominated from start to finish, and with Clay leading the charge, they’re poised to make a deep run this year.

High School Football: Roundup

Kendrick Cherokees’ head coach Emmanuel Brown had plenty to celebrate, as he secured his first win with a 13-10 nail-biter over Heritage. 

The Cherokees showed grit and determination, and this victory could be the spark that ignites their season. 

Meanwhile, Chattahoochee County flexed its defensive muscles, shutting out Brookstone 14-0, proving that they’re a team that can dominate on both sides of the ball. 

The Shaw Raiders also got their season off to a strong start, defeating Seminole County 14-7 in a hard-fought battle.

But the real excitement is just beginning, as the regular high school football season kicks off Aug. 16 with a full slate of games. 

Northside will face off against Shaw at 7 p.m. at Kinnett Stadium, 7610 N. Stadium Dr., Columbus, Ga. 31909, a matchup that promises to be a fierce rivalry game with plenty on the line. 

Carver will take on Whitewater at Odis Spencer Stadium, 4150 Cusseta Road, Columbus, Ga. 31903, while Spencer hits the road to battle Dooly County. Kendrick travels to Walker, Columbus heads to Miller County, and Hardaway makes the trip to Jackson for what should be a thrilling contest. All games are set to kick off at 7:30 p.m.

As we dive into another action-packed season, one thing is clear: high school sports in our area are alive and thriving. 

From the diamond to the gridiron, these young athletes are giving it their all, and the community is rallying behind them.

So, grab your tickets, find your seats, and get ready for an unforgettable season of high school sports. 

Whether you’re cheering for the Lady Hawks, the Blue Devils, or your local football team, there’s no better time to show your support. 

Until next time, keep your eye on the ball, and I’ll see you on the sidelines!