Double Coverage

By Jerome Bryant

Welcome back to another thrilling edition of "Time-Out," your go-to source for all things local sports! From coaching changes to Friday night lights, we’ve got plenty of action to cover, so let’s dive right in.

New Leadership for Vikings Baseball

In a major announcement, St. Anne-Pacelli Catholic School has named Case Rasmus as the new head coach of the Vikings Baseball team. Rasmus steps into the role following the departure of Adam Thomas, who is stepping down due to health reasons that require his full attention.

A Phenix City, Ala., native, Rasmus is no stranger to success on the diamond. A standout catcher from Russell County High School, class of 2008, he was one of the most sought-after talents in Alabama.

His journey took him from Gulf Coast Community College to Northwest Florida State Community College, and eventually to Liberty University, a Division I school in Lynchburg, Va.

After college, Rasmus spent four years in the St. Louis Cardinals organization, reaching Double-A, being named an organization All-Star in 2013, and earning an invitation to Major League Baseball Spring Training in 2014. With such an impressive resume, the future looks bright for the Vikings under Rasmus’ leadership.

High School Softball Highlights

Turning our attention to the softball diamond, the Columbus Blue Devils continue their winning streak, securing their fourth consecutive victory with a dominant 9-1 win over Lamar County. Meanwhile, the Northside Lady Patriots put on a clinic against Marion County, cruising to a 12-1 victory on Aug. 17.

Friday Night Lights: Football Fever

Friday night football was in full swing across the tri-city area as local teams kicked off their seasons, both at home and on the road.

The Northside Patriots made a strong statement in their season opener at Kinnett Stadium with a 33-14 win over the Shaw Raiders on Aug. 17. The Patriots’ rushing attack was unstoppable, led by Senior running back Kingston Rivers, who racked up 96 yards, and Junior running back Jai Jackson, who added 103 yards on the ground.

Across town at Odis Spencer Stadium, the Carver Tigers outlasted the Whitewater Wildcats with a 20-13 victory on Aug. 16. Junior running back Jakobe Caslin was a force to be reckoned with, rushing for 167 yards and a touchdown on just 13 carries. He also contributed three receptions for 77 yards.

Tigers’ quarterback Matthew Mungin had an impressive night, completing 11 of 17 passes for 177 yards and two touchdowns, both caught by Senior receiver Braylon Jakes.

Meanwhile, K-Town is back and better than ever under first-year head coach Emmanuel Brown! The Kendrick Cherokees stormed into their season opener with a resounding 38-0 win over Walker on Aug. 16.

Kendrick’s star running back Tymir Jones was unstoppable, tearing through the defense for 106 rushing yards and three touchdowns. The Cherokees are off to a blazing start, and the season is just getting started!

In other action, Brookstone secured a solid 26-15 win over Tattnall, with Jakeith Tolbert contributing both a receiving touchdown and an interception Aug. 16

Upcoming Games to Watch

The action heats up again on Aug. 22 as the Shaw Raiders face off against Smiths Station at 8 p.m., and the Hardaway Hawks take on B.T. Washington (Atlanta) at 7 p.m.

But the real fireworks will come on Aug. 23 with the Annual Heritage Bowl featuring Carver vs. Spencer at Memorial Stadium at 7 p.m. This rivalry game is one for the ages, and you won’t want to miss it!

Other matchups on Aug. 23 include the Jordan Red Jackets hitting the road to face Bremen at 7 p.m., the Columbus Blue Devils traveling to Greenville for a 7:30 p.m. kickoff, and the Kendrick Cherokees heading up to Atlanta to take on B.E.S.T. Academy at 8 p.m.

Last Week’s Scoreboard

Terrell County 12, Calvary 3

Carver 20, Whitewater 13

Northside 33, Shaw 14

Harris County 16, Manchester 8

Jackson 24, Hardaway 14

Kendrick 38, Walker 0

Miller County 38, Columbus 9

Stratford 27, St. Anne-Pacelli 13

Brookstone 26, Tattnall 15

Flint River 19, Gatewood 14

Troup County 39, Villa Rica 6

Mt. Zion 34, Chattahoochee County 0

That’s it for this week’s edition of "Time-Out."

Stay tuned for more local sports action and remember to cheer on our teams as they hit the fields this season!

Until next time, keep the spirit alive and the game strong!