By Blake EllsBriarwood Christian’s defense proved too stout for Etowah in the quarterfinals – allowing just 181 yards – and the Lions remained unbeaten with a 31-0 victory. They advance to meet St. Clair County in the 5A semifinals.The Blue Devils successfully contained the Briarwood Christian running game, but the Lions found other ways to create … [Read more...]
Mountain Brook Advances in State Playoffs Despite Injuries
By Blake EllsSenior quarterback Hamp Sisson led Mountain Brook to a 23-22 victory over Bob Jones in the first round of the AHSAA state playoffs, the Spartans’ first playoff victory since 2012. Harold Joiner and AJ Gates sat with injuries, leaving Sisson as the offensive leader. But Sisson had help. “I felt like the offensive line took control of the line of scrimmage,” … [Read more...]
Mountain Brook Boys Win State Cross-Country Title; Vestavia’s Sweeney Takes Top Individual Slot
By Blake EllsThe Mountain Brook boys cross-country team won its 14th state championship on Nov. 11 at Oakville.The Spartans had four finishers in the top 17, including Charlie Slaughter at second and Hunter Harwell at eighth. Joseph Pitard and Gram Denning finished 16th and 17th, respectively. Sophomore Eric Alexander place 41st.Vestavia Hills senior James Sweeney … [Read more...]
Baby Steps: Vestavia’s Davis Looks to Build on Last Season’s Basketball Record
By Blake EllsWhen Patrick Davis took over the Vestavia Hills boys basketball program last season, he was eager for the opportunity to lead the Rebels, which had won two state championships before his arrival.In his first season, the Rebels reached the state semifinals.They return eight players from that ’16-’17 team this year, with hopes of going even … [Read more...]
Attention to Detail: Gann Leads Spartans Volleyball Team Hoping to Score a Fourth State Championship
By Blake EllsMountain Brook is the only high school volleyball team in Alabama to win the state championship since Class 7A was created. But, despite its three straight wins, the team heads into the state championship this week as the second seed and a bit of an underdog.Members of the team have felt doubted this season, and perhaps their doubters had reason. Libby … [Read more...]