Time-Out: Border Wars, National Champions, and a Rising Power in Russell County

This past weekend marked a milestone moment for Muscogee County athletics, with championship banners flying, programs gaining momentum, and a fresh wave of talent making its presence known. From the success of the inaugural Girls 7on7 Border War Tournament to the dominance on display at the 2nd Annual Boys Border Wars, and a world championship win for one of the area’s youngest rising squads, the region is proving once again that the future of football, both flag and tackle, is bright in the Valley.

The Muscogee County School District’s inaugural Girls 7on7 Border War Tournament debuted with style, energy, and some incredible performances that elevated the level of competition for female athletes across the area. With schools from across the district fielding teams, the tournament provided a stage for these young athletes to showcase their skills in speed, strategy, and execution. Emerging as the queens of the gridiron were the Fort Middle School Lady Patriots, who battled through a competitive bracket filled with tough matchups and clutch moments. Displaying discipline on defense and fluid execution on offense, Fort went undefeated in the tournament to secure the first-ever Girls Border War title.

They were pushed to the limit by Richards Middle, who claimed the second-place trophy after a strong showing that highlighted their resilience and grit throughout pool and bracket play. With playmakers on both sides of the ball and a well-coached unit, Richards proved they will be a team to watch in any future 7on7 events. Finishing in third, East Columbus delivered a standout performance that turned heads. With an athletic roster and fast-paced play style, East Columbus proved to be a worthy contender from start to finish. Their podium finish underscored the depth of talent emerging in girls' football in Muscogee County something athletic leaders have prioritized and invested in.

Across the field, the 2nd Annual Boys Border Wars 7on7 Tournament was a full display of elite athleticism, preparation, and fierce competition. Teams representing Georgia and Alabama went head-to-head in a highly anticipated event that brought together some of the top young talent in the Southeast. In the end, it was Rothschild Middle School that separated themselves from the pack. Dominating on both sides of the ball, Rothschild put together a run that was as efficient as it was explosive, capturing the 2025 Boys Border Wars championship with commanding wins in every round. Their defensive adjustments and offensive execution proved to be too much for opponents all day long.

Coming in second was Russell County Middle School, who showcased toughness and composure enroute to the title game. Their journey to the finals was marked by close battles, strategic play-calling, and standout performances from key players who embraced the big-stage atmosphere. Aaron Cohn Middle School rounded out the top three with a well-earned third-place finish. Known for their athleticism and disciplined team play, Cohn’s squad played with heart and confidence all tournament long, leaving no doubt that they belong in any conversation about elite middle school programs.

As if the weekend wasn’t already packed with energy, attention now shifts to the gridiron once again as our High School Football Season Preview Series continues this time, with a spotlight on one of Alabama’s fastest-rising programs: The Russell County Warriors.

The Warriors head into the 2025–26 season riding a wave of momentum and belief. Under the leadership of Head Coach Dillon Griggs, the culture at Russell County has undergone a dramatic transformation. Gone are the days of rebuilding. Today, the Warriors are knocking on the door of dominance in Alabama’s 6A classification. Griggs, known for his player-first philosophy and disciplined approach, has built a roster and a mindset capable of competing with the state’s best. Last season, Russell County finished 9–3 overall and 5–1 in Region 2, securing a second-place region finish and earning a postseason berth that showed just how far this program has come.

At the center of that offensive explosion is returning senior quarterback Bryson Riggins, a dynamic playmaker who ranked among the top quarterbacks in the entire state. Riggins threw for 3,251 yards and 40 touchdowns, averaging nearly 271 yards per game, placing him in the top two for all of Alabama Class 6A. Armed with a strong arm, quick release, and natural leadership qualities, Riggins holds an offer from Tuskegee and is drawing interest from several Division I programs. He’s not just the face of the Warriors he’s one of the most exciting QBs in the Southeast.

Riggins’ top target, Quentin Lewis, will also return to the lineup. Standing at 6’3” and weighing 178 lbs, Lewis brings elite size and hands to the receiver corps. In key matchups like his 94-yard performance against Northridge and 118 yards versus Valley he proved he can take over games when needed. Entering his junior year, Lewis is poised for a breakout campaign and will be a name college recruiters keep a close eye on. Defensively, the heart of the trenches belongs to senior lineman Isaiah Thomas, a 6’3”, 240-pound anchor with a relentless motor. He recorded six sacks last season and brings leadership, strength, and gap control to a unit that will need to continue evolving if the Warriors want to make a deep playoff run.

Statistically, Russell County averaged over 30 points per game behind one of the state’s best passing attacks. Their narrow playoff exits to Spain Park (45–30) served as both motivation and confirmation they’re just steps away from breaking into elite territory. With Riggins returning under center, a talented supporting cast around him, and Coach Griggs continuing to build a culture rooted in preparation and pride, expectations are sky-high. The Warriors are no longer outsiders they're contenders. And they’ll get the chance to prove it when they open their season on August 22 against Carroll High School.

In every corner of Muscogee and Russell County, from middle school flag football to rising Friday night lights programs, there’s one constant: growth. Talent is being developed. Programs are ascending. And communities are rallying behind their athletes like never before. Stay tuned for more previews, spotlights, and stories that shine a light on the excellence happening right here at home because this is just the beginning.