TIME-OUT: Champions Rise Again Tigers Dominate, Lady Hawks Aim for Repeat, and Playoff Season Heats Up Across the Valley

Every fall, the Chattahoochee Valley comes alive with high school sports, and this past weekend was no exception. From the Friday night lights on the gridiron to the hardwood tip-off of basketball season, fans across Georgia and Alabama witnessed championship aspirations, emerging talent, and programs looking to finish strong. With playoff berths at stake and new storylines emerging, the Valley continues to showcase grit, pride, and athletic excellence.

The Carver Tigers once again proved why they are one of Georgia’s elite programs, capturing their second straight 1-AA Football Championship with a dominant 42–0 shutout over the Kendrick Cherokees. Quarterback Sebastian Heard orchestrated a masterful offensive performance, completing 71.4% of his passes for 148 yards and two touchdowns, while Kelston Tarver added two more scores to maintain his season-long consistency. Special teams also shined, highlighted by Zach Watts’ electrifying punt return touchdown that energized the crowd and effectively sealed Kendrick’s fate before halftime. With this win, Carver extended its perfect record to 10–0, marking a second consecutive undefeated regular season and total dominance in Region 1-AA. The Tigers now turn their attention to the playoffs, where they face Redan in a marquee opening-round matchup.

Not far away, the Spencer Greenwaves carried momentum into their final games, securing a 48–20 victory over the Hardaway Hawks. It was Spencer’s second straight 28-point win and third consecutive road victory, moving their record to 6–4 heading into the postseason. With an offense averaging over 41 points during this stretch, the Greenwaves have become a dangerous playoff contender, set to face Miller Grove at Godfrey Stadium in the first round. Hardaway’s young Hawks concluded a rebuilding season at 1–9 but showed flashes of growth and promise for the future.

The Shaw Raiders ended their season on a high note with a 48–14 victory over the Jordan Red Jackets, closing at 3–7 and setting positive momentum for the offseason. For Jordan, the 0–10 record may be disappointing, but their young roster gained valuable experience that could fuel improvement next season. Columbus, meanwhile, fell 48–3 to Sumter County but still clinched a playoff berth, set to face Hapeville Charter at Banneker Stadium. Central High School in Alabama finished 9–1 and 7–0 in region play, preparing for a heavyweight showdown against Hoover, with quarterback Bobby Coleman leading a potent offense and a stingy defense anchoring their campaign.

As the football season wraps, the spotlight shifts to the hardwood, where the Courier Eco Latino Basketball Media Day, powered by C Black Hoops and Porter Sports, officially kicked off the 2025–26 high school basketball season. Programs from across the Valley, including Hardaway, Carver, Northside, Columbus, Spencer, Central, Pacelli, and more, gathered for interviews, highlight reels, and team previews, offering fans an inside look at the talent, storylines, and rivalries set to define the winter season.

The Hardaway Lady Hawks, defending GHSA 2A State Champions, are led by veteran Coach Kelly Ellison and a roster loaded with returning stars. Rhianna Boynton, Mikhia Mims, and Caliyah Williams headline a team blending championship experience with emerging talent, aiming to continue the Lady Hawks’ streak of region championships and deep postseason runs.

The G.W. Carver Tigers, under Coach Eric Allen, return key contributors such as Jayddence Ford, Tobiaz Tolbert, and Quadril Truesdale. Following a season that included a Region 1-AA Championship and a Final Four appearance, Carver brings veteran leadership and balanced scoring to the table, poised for another deep postseason push.

Northside Lady Patriots, guided by Coach Jarquella Woods, feature multiple All-Region players and a mix of experienced and emerging talent. After finishing third in Region 4-AAAA last season, Northside is eager to climb the standings and make another playoff run while continuing to develop players at the next level.

Basketball Media Day offered more than just previews; it provided fans with a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the culture, character, and preparation of each program. Coaches discussed strategy, returning leaders, and team expectations, while athletes showcased leadership, poise, and excitement for the season ahead. The event highlighted the Valley’s passion for basketball and reinforced the sense of community surrounding these programs.

As the season transitions from fall to winter, the Chattahoochee Valley is brimming with competition. From Carver’s football dominance and Spencer’s surge to the rise of powerhouse basketball teams like Hardaway and Carver, every game tells a story, every athlete adds to a legacy, and the spirit of local sports continues to shine bright. Whether on the gridiron or the court, the Valley’s high school athletes are set to make this year unforgettable.

Upcoming Events Around the Valley:

• Flag Football: Nov. 4 @ Kinnett Stadium (Northside vs Spencer, Carver vs Spencer, Northside vs Carver)
• Basketball Tip-Offs: Nov. 5 (Carver @ St. Francis, Jordan vs Hardaway, Columbus vs Kendrick, Kendrick vs Shaw)
• Flag Football & Volleyball Playoffs: Nov. 6 (Carver @ Monroe, Northside vs Jordan, Hardaway @ Callaway, Columbus vs Shaw)
• Basketball, Cheer, Swim, and Cross Country Events: Nov. 7–8 (Columbus @ Upson Lee, Heard Co @ Spencer, Hardaway @ Forest Park, Shaw @ Russell County, Blue Devil Swim Invite, GHSA Cheer & Cross Country Championships)

The fall season may be winding down, but the Valley’s sports scene is alive with excitement, anticipation, and unforgettable moments. Fans, coaches, and athletes alike have plenty to cheer for as championships, rivalries, and stories continue to unfold.