Time Out With Jerome Bryant

By Jerome Bryant

In a great week of sports action, the local scene was ablaze with excitement as athletes from across the region showcased their skills and determination on the field, track, and court. From college signings to championship victories, here’s a roundup of the week’s top highlights:

  College Signing Day at Pacelli High School was a testament to the talent and dedication of seven standout seniors. Among them, Joseph Dawson, Omar Kimbrough, Walker Hilton, and Thomas Sims will take their baseball prowess to the collegiate level, with commitments to Alabama A&M University and Chattahoochee Valley Community College. Travis “Deuce” Moore will showcase his track and field skills at Fort Valley State University, while TJ Smith is set to hit the hardwood at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College. Soccer standout Jimmy McCamey rounds out the group with his commitment to Bellarmine University. But the excitement doesn’t stop there. Carver High School’s Jazmin Thornton made waves with her basketball scholarship signing to Savannah State University, while Glenwood High School’s Lady Gators celebrated their state championship victory in soccer.

On the track, Columbus High School Gabby Harris, a member of the Lady Blue Devils, showcased her exceptional speed and talent at the 2024 GHSA 3A Region 1 Championships. She secured the title of champion in the 100m dash with a personal record time of 12.41 seconds and excelled in the 200m event with a time of 25.41 seconds. Furthermore, the Columbus High School Lady Blue Devils team demonstrated their strength and prowess by clinching the title of GHSA 3A Region 1 championship. Additionally, they finished as the runners-up in the 4×4 relay and secured the third position in the 4×2 relay, further solidifying their dominance in the region. 

   Kendrick High School’s track team emerged triumphant at the GHSA 2A Region 2 Competition held in Macon. Demonstrating remarkable skill and teamwork, they secured the title of region champions in both the 4×1 and 4×2 relays. The winning 4×1 relay team comprised Ahmir Davis, Tymir Jones, Bukhari Littles, and Azabien Johnson, while the victorious 4×2 relay team included Ahmir Davis, Salathiel Hill, Bukhari Littles, and Azabien Johnson. Congratulations are also in order for Kendrick High School’s Jeremiah Stroud, who clinched the GHSA 2A Region 2 champion title in the 300m hurdles event.

   The Central Lady Red Devils dominated on the softball diamond, securing the Area Champions title and earning the top seed from Area 4 at the upcoming regional tournament. Meanwhile, Calvary Christian Middle School’s baseball team continued their winning ways, clinching their 6th GAPPS State Championship in 7 years.

   Looking ahead, high school baseball playoffs are heating up with some exciting matchups on the horizon:

• Glenwood vs. Rock Springs Christian Academy on Wednesday, May 1st 5:30 p.m.
• Central vs. Baker (doubleheader) on Friday, May 3rd 5:30 p.m. & 8:00 p.m.
• Brookstone and Pacelli await their opponents for their respective playoff games on Friday.

   As the week draws to a close, one thing is clear: the local sports community is thriving with talent and passion. With college commitments, championship victories, and playoff showdowns, the spirit of competition is alive and well, inspiring fans and athletes alike. Stay tuned for more thrilling action in the weeks to come!