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TVCC has fought adversity all season long.

Weather delays. Power outages. Long road trips. Unexpected challenges.

This week, it was the flu.

And once again, the Cardinals found a way to win.

Despite an illness that swept through the team, No. 3 Trinity Valley beat Snow College 30-14 Saturday at Bruce Field to advance to the Southwest Junior College Football Conference championship game.

Some players were too sick to play. Others rested in the locker room instead of warming up, trying to save enough energy for the game.

But the Cardinals got a 45-yard Hail Mary touchdown on the final play of the first half and two interception returns for touchdowns in the fourth quarter to secure their eighth straight victory.

TVCC coach Sherard Poteete said the team has adopted a simple attitude about overcoming adversity.

“We all we need. We all we got,” he said.

The Cardinals (8-1) needed that attitude Saturday.

Snow led 7-3 with just seconds remaining in the first half before quarterback Jackson LaTour connected with Dilon Tallie on a 45-yard Hail Mary as time expired.

The touchdown gave TVCC a 10-7 halftime lead and provided what Poteete called a much-needed shot in the arm.

The game remained close into the fourth quarter before the Cardinals’ defense delivered the decisive plays.

Da’Marion Ross returned an interception 92 yards for a touchdown, and Amyrian Scott added a 28-yard pick-six later in the quarter. Whitney Fuller also intercepted a pass late in the game as the defense helped secure the 30-14 victory.

Cash Hernandez also played a major role, connecting on field goals of 28, 27 and 31 yards.

The Cardinals had to overcome more than the flu.

LaTour took two hard hits that forced him to leave the game temporarily. Mike Jones stepped in at quarterback and helped lead TVCC to a field goal before LaTour returned.

“I thought he got killed twice,” Poteete said.

The coach praised LaTour’s toughness, but said the victory required contributions from throughout the roster.

Poteete said his team has learned to handle whatever comes its way.

That ability has carried the Cardinals through eight straight wins and put them one win away from the conference playoff championship.

Navarro beat Tyler 28-25 in the other regional semifinal, setting up a rematch of TVCC’s 19-17 victory over the Bulldogs earlier this season.

The SWJCFC championship game is scheduled for 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, at Bruce Field.

For the Cardinals, the championship still runs through The Valley.

SCORING SUMMARY

• TVCC - 2Q, 6:46 - Cash Hernandez 28-yard field goal. -- 3-0

• SNOW - 2Q, 0:16 - Louie Hamilton 1-yard run. Ian Sanches kick good. -- 7-3

• TVCC - 2Q, 0:00 - Jackson LaTour 45-yard pass to Dilon Tallie. Hernandez kick good. -- 10-7

• TVCC - 3Q, 6:33 - Hernandez 27-yard field goal. -- 13-7

• TVCC - 4Q, 14:36 - Da’Marion Ross 92-yard interception return. Hernandez kick good. -- 20-7

• SNOW - 4Q, time not recorded - Will Warner 84-yard kickoff return. Sanches kick good. -- 20-14

• TVCC - 4Q, 10:33 - Hernandez 31-yard field goal. -- 23-14

• TVCC - 4Q, 8:54 - Amyrian Scott 28-yard interception return. Hernandez kick good. -- 30-14

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ATHENS — The first quarter ended in a 0-0 tie Friday night at Bruce Field.

By halftime, Athens had scored 35.

The Hornets turned a slow-moving Senior Night matchup into a 66-21 rout of Van, improving to 9-0 overall and 4-0 in District 9-4A Division II with one regular-season game remaining.

Athens scored on every offensive possession, got touchdowns from both quarterbacks, and added a 77-yard kickoff return by Julius Cofer.

Coach Zac Harrell said afterward he was proud of how his players continue to improve despite the demands of a long season.

“The challenge is to keep showing up and finding ways to get better,” Harrell said.

The Hornets set the tone with a 15-play opening drive that consumed nearly the entire first quarter. Athens relied on its running game and offensive line to move downfield before scoring on a 3-yard run four seconds into the second quarter.

That methodical start gave way to an offensive explosion.

Khion Brown connected with Ja’Coby Wilson on touchdown passes of 59 and 6 yards and added a 38-yard scoring run as Athens built a 28-0 lead.

Van finally scored with 36 seconds remaining in the half, but Cofer returned the ensuing kickoff 77 yards for another touchdown.

The return was particularly satisfying for Athens because Harrell had identified kickoff returns as an area needing improvement during his weekly podcast.

It also demonstrated how many ways the Hornets can score.

Brown has been one of the area’s most productive quarterbacks, but Athens has continued developing weapons throughout the offense.

Trey Thompson and Charli Kiser each scored rushing touchdowns in the third quarter, and senior quarterback Thatcher Diamond took over midway through the third.

Diamond threw touchdown passes to Gerren Lee Brown and Cofer, including a 65-yard connection with Cofer.

The Hornets’ offensive success started up front.

Harrell praised offensive line coach David Haresnape and his staff for the work they have done with the unit. The opening 15-play drive was an example of the line’s ability to control the game, while the big plays that followed showed how difficult Athens can be to defend.

The defense also continued its improvement.

Van moved the ball on its opening possession but struggled afterward. The Vandals’ first touchdown came on a drive aided by 45 yards in Athens defensive penalties.

Their other two touchdowns came late in the fourth quarter, long after the Hornets had taken control.

Athens final score came with 29 seconds remaining.

The Hornets, already leading 63-21, sent Juan Robles onto the field for a 47-yard field goal attempt.

Robles made the kick.

Harrell explained afterward that the coaching staff wanted to give Robles an opportunity to attempt a long field goal in a game situation.

“We feel like he has a strong leg,” Harrell said.

The kick could prove valuable experience as Athens prepares for the playoffs, when a long field goal might make the difference in a close game.

And that is where Harrell’s attention is turning.

Even after a 45-point victory that kept his team undefeated, Harrell was thinking about what the Hornets still need to accomplish.

“I think there’s always a bigger game ahead, so we got to always find ways to get better,” he said.

Athens travels to Canton, which is also undefeated in district, on Friday for its regular-season finale. Harrell said securing the district’s top playoff seed is important because it would give the Hornets the best possible postseason draw.

The Hornets are one win away from an undefeated regular season, but their coach is still looking ahead.

SCORING SUMMARY

• - ATH - 2Q, 11:56 - Ja’Bory Taylor 3-yard run. Juan Robles kick good. -- 7-0

• - ATH - 2Q, 8:13 - Ja’Coby Wilson 59-yard pass from Khion Brown. Robles kick good. -- 14-0

• - ATH - 2Q, 4:08 - Khion Brown 38-yard run. Robles kick good. -- 21-0

• - ATH - 2Q, 3:51 - Wilson 6-yard pass from Brown. Robles kick good. -- 28-0

• - VAN - 2Q, 0:36 - Parker Rainey 23-yard run. Elijah Colorado kick good. -- 28-7

• - ATH - 2Q, 0:25 - Julius Cofer 77-yard kickoff return. Robles kick good. -- 35-7

• - ATH - 3Q, 8:45 - Trey Thompson 12-yard run. Robles kick good. -- 42-7

• - ATH - 3Q, 2:35 - Charli Kiser 1-yard run. Robles kick good. -- 49-7

• - ATH - 4Q, 11:53 - Gerren Lee Brown 22-yard pass from Thatcher Diamond. Robles kick good. -- 56-7

• - VAN - 4Q, 6:45 - Rawly Hinch 17-yard run. Colorado kick good. -- 56-14

• - ATH - 4Q, 5:17 - Cofer 65-yard pass from Diamond. Robles kick good. -- 63-14

• - VAN - 4Q, 3:05 - 26-yard pass from Logan Weems. Colorado kick good. -- 63-21

• - ATH - 4Q, 0:29 - Juan Robles 47-yard field goal. -- 66-21

[Photo courtesy the Athens High School Yearbook staff.]

Trinity Valley Community College spent the regular season earning the right to play at home in the playoffs.

Now the Cardinals have to take advantage of it.

No. 3 TVCC (7-1) will host Snow College (5-4) at 1 p.m. Saturday at Bruce Field in the Southwest Junior College Football Conference regional semifinals.

The Cardinals have won seven straight games and finished undefeated in conference play and claimed the SWJCFC regular-season championship.

But the stakes change Saturday. One loss and the season is over.

“Our team, our guys have put themselves in a position to be here now. So can we go take it?” TVCC coach Sherard Poteete said.

Snow is a familiar opponent. The Cardinals traveled to Utah on Sept. 12 and came away with a 39-30 victory after falling behind 11-0 early.

This time, the Badgers have to make the trip to Athens, giving TVCC the advantage of playing in front of its home crowd and maintaining its normal routine.

Snow secured its playoff berth with a win last week and brings a strong running game led by Jadyn Buckner, who has rushed for 810 yards and six touchdowns.

Poteete expects the Badgers to give Buckner plenty of carries and try to control the clock.

Snow also has a defense capable of creating problems. Linebacker Fale Atuaia has recorded seven sacks, while defensive back Meeks Falatea has six interceptions.

The Cardinals, meanwhile, are coming off a 31-20 victory over Blinn that showed their ability to win in all three phases of the game.

After allowing 20 points and 298 yards in the first half, TVCC’s defense shut out the Buccaneers after halftime.

Quarterback Jackson La Tour led an offense that produced 565 yards, while Jalan Campiti provided a strong running attack. Special teams sealed the victory with a blocked punt returned for a touchdown.

Poteete said the Cardinals have developed the ability to sustain drives or score quickly.

That versatility, along with a defense that has continued to improve, has helped carry TVCC to a No. 3 ranking nationally.

A victory Saturday would send the Cardinals to the SWJCFC championship game Nov. 7, another step toward a possible berth in the four-team NJCAA national championship tournament.

But Poteete doesn’t want his players thinking that far ahead.

“Can you go continue to do what we’ve done and not look ahead? Can you go ahead and just be in the present right now?” he said.

GAME DAY: A public playoff tailgate begins at 11 a.m. Saturday at Bruce Field. Papa Rogers will prepare Boston butts, and fans are invited to bring tents and join the festivities. Kickoff is at 1 p.m.

On this week’s Athens Hornets Podcast, Coach Zac Harrell looks back at the Hornets’ 56-21 win over Madisonville and ahead to Friday’s Senior Night matchup against Van at Bruce Field.

Hornets Riding High

Athens is 8-0 overall and 3-0 in District 9-4A Division II after what Harrell called the team’s most complete performance of the season.

The Hornets scored 21 points in the first 8:19 of the third quarter against Madisonville, with the offense, defense, and special teams all contributing.

Harrell is proud of the team’s success, but he believes the Hornets have bigger goals than simply reaching the playoffs.

The challenge now is to keep improving.

A Defense Coming Together

One of the biggest developments in recent weeks has been the improvement of the Athens defense.

Harrell credited the return of Ja’Bory Taylor with making a significant difference, allowing Thomas Faulk to move to his more natural position at outside linebacker.

Harrell called Taylor the best defensive football player Athens has had during his eight years with the program.

The defensive front has also become more aggressive, with Danny Kelley and Torrence Williams among those making an impact.

That pressure is supported by a talented secondary featuring Gerren Lee Brown, Ja’Coby Wilson, Satchel Williams, and Kaeden Johnson. Harrell said the coaching staff trusts those players in coverage, giving the defense more freedom to pressure opposing quarterbacks.

Senior Night

Athens will recognize 27 seniors Friday.

Harrell praised the perseverance of this senior class. Many struggled to win games in middle school and as freshmen, but they stayed with the program and continued working.

Now they are part of an undefeated team that has reached the playoffs in each of their four high school seasons.

Harrell said Senior Night is one of his favorite opportunities to recognize what those players have contributed to the program.

The ceremony begins at 7 p.m.

Scouting Van

Van enters Friday’s game 4-4 overall and 1-2 in district, but Harrell warned against judging the Vandals by their record.

Several of Van’s losses have been close, including games the Vandals led late.

Harrell expects a well-coached team that will play hard and believe it can win.

Van runs an offense similar to Athens’, using many of the same schemes. The Vandals are led by a talented two-year starting quarterback who can extend plays with his legs.

Containing him will be one of Athens’ biggest defensive priorities.

Defensively, Van operates primarily from a 4-2-5 alignment.

The matchup also has a personal connection for Harrell, who has longstanding relationships with members of Van’s coaching staff. He credits one of those coaches with helping shape his approach to coaching and working with young men.

Keys to Victory

Word of the Week: Street Dog Mentality

Harrell compared a hungry street dog, which must work every day to survive, to a comfortable house dog that has little to worry about. His message to the Hornets is to stay hungry, focus on the present, and approach each day with determination.

Keys to the Game

• Stay hungry -- Athens cannot allow its undefeated record or recent success to create complacency.

• Hit and contain the quarterback -- Van’s quarterback drives the offense, and Athens must pressure him without allowing him to escape and extend plays.

• Play unselfish offense -- The Hornets must continue blocking downfield and putting team success ahead of individual statistics.

• Win field position -- Harrell wants improvement in the kickoff return game, an area where Athens has not yet reached its potential.

• Play smarter than Van -- Athens must avoid unnecessary penalties and maintain its composure.

Athens (8-0, 3-0) hosts Van (4-4, 1-2) at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 30, at Bruce Field. Senior Night recognition begins at 7 p.m.

(Post sponsored by Tinsley Title and Holt Wrecker Service)

Athens quarterback Khion Brown has accounted for 2,069 yards and 30 touchdowns through eight games this season.

Amazing numbers for anyone, let alone a 15-year-old sophomore.

Brown has thrown for 1,244 yards and 15 touchdowns while rushing for another 825 yards and 15 scores. In his first varsity season, he has helped lead the Hornets to an 8-0 record.

But for Athens Coach Zac Harrell, Brown’s growth goes beyond the statistics.

“I’m very proud of how he has matured,” Harrell said during this week’s Athens Hornets Podcast.

Harrell said there’s a lot of pressure on a young starting quarterback, particularly in a program where winning is expected. He recently reminded himself that Brown is younger than his own son, Gunner, a freshman.

Despite that youth, Brown has taken on the responsibility of leading an offense filled with talented players.

And while he has plenty of physical ability, Harrell believes something else sets him apart.

“I think what makes him as good as he is is how competitive he is,” Harrell said. “He’s one of the most competitive kids I’ve been around.”

That competitiveness shows up even when Brown doesn’t have the ball.

Harrell pointed to the way Brown often runs downfield looking for somebody to block after handing off to a running back.

It’s not something you see from every quarterback, but Harrell said Brown is unselfish and enjoys the physical side of football.

He also has plenty of help.

Trey Thompson has rushed for 734 yards and seven touchdowns, while Charli Kiser has added 464 yards and six scores. Ja’Coby Wilson has 538 receiving yards and seven touchdowns, and Nathan Champion has 370 yards and seven touchdowns.

Harrell said Brown’s confidence in his receivers has grown as the season has progressed, and those players have continued to improve around him.

The combination was on display Friday against Madisonville.

Brown rushed for 144 yards and a touchdown while completing eight passes for 257 yards and four more scores. His 401 combined yards helped Athens roll past the Mustangs 56-21.

On the sideline, he’s often smiling and joking with teammates. He’s the kind of person who can walk in and light up a room.

“He’s always in a good mood, he’s always smiling. He always likes to cut jokes,” Harrell said.

It’s an interesting contrast. Brown carries the responsibility of leading an unbeaten football team, but he’s still a 15-year-old who enjoys being around his teammates.

And considering what he’s accomplished in his first varsity season, there’s plenty of reason to wonder what he might do next.

(Photo of Khion Brown (13) courtesy the Athens High School yearbook staff.)

(Post sponsored by Tinsley Title and Holt Wrecker Service)

Sherard Poteete and Paty Figueiredo are piling up wins at Trinity Valley Community College. But ask either coach what matters most, and the answer has little to do with the scoreboard.

The two Cardinals coaches have reached significant career milestones this season.

Poteete has moved into second place on the TVCC football program’s all-time wins list, while Figueiredo has surpassed 100 career coaching victories in volleyball.

Both accomplishments reflect success on the field and court. But for the two coaches, the bigger rewards come from the lives they help shape along the way.

Poteete earned his 56th career victory with TVCC’s homecoming win over Blinn, passing former coach Bob Baccarini for second place in program history.

The victory improved Poteete’s career record to 56-29 and capped a perfect 7-0 conference season for the Cardinals.

It was another milestone for Poteete, who had moved into third place on the school’s career wins list earlier this year.

But when asked about the accomplishment, Poteete pointed to something that has little to do with football.

“The best wins are the ones off the field, when guys are making decisions that will change their life,” he said.

It’s a philosophy that reflects the importance Poteete places on developing young men, not just football players.

Meanwhile, Figueiredo reached her own milestone during the volleyball season.

The TVCC coach earned her 100th career victory earlier this season and has already pushed that total to 108.

Figueiredo, who took over the Cardinals program in 2025, has built her coaching career around the same game that helped shape her own life.

Now she is helping young women discover the opportunities, friendships and lessons that volleyball can provide.

For Figueiredo, reaching 100 wins offered a chance to reflect on the people who have been part of that journey.

“The numbers don’t fully capture the moments, the relationships, and the memories I’ve been blessed to build along the way,” she said. “The wins are special, but the people and the memories are what makes it all worthwhile.”

The two milestones represent different coaching journeys. Poteete continues to climb the record books of a football program with a long history of success, while Figueiredo has reached a career landmark as she builds her own legacy in volleyball.

But their responses to the recognition reveal something they have in common.

The victories matter. Championships matter.

For both coaches, however, the relationships they build and the impact they have on their student-athletes will last long after the final scores are forgotten.

(Post sponsored by Tinsley Title and Holt Wrecker Service)

Blinn College threw everything it had at the TVCC defense Saturday.

It worked, for a half.

After giving up 20 points and 298 yards in the opening two quarters, the fourth-ranked Cardinals shut out the Buccaneers in the second half on the way to a 31-20 homecoming win at Bruce Field.

The win gave TVCC (7-1, 7-0) its seventh straight win and the Southwest Junior College Football Conference regular-season championship.

The Buccaneers made the Cardinals work for it.

Blinn (4-5) led 20-17 at halftime and had taken advantage of some costly TVCC turnovers. But the Cardinals’ defense took control after the break, holding the Buccaneers to just 37 yards rushing and forcing two turnovers to keep Blinn off the scoreboard.

The offense did its part, too.

Maddux Shelby scored on an 11-yard run early in the third quarter to put TVCC ahead 24-20, and the Cardinals protected that lead until one of the wildest plays of the season put the game away.

With 2:34 remaining, Eddie Robinson Jr. broke through the Blinn protection and blocked a punt. Robinson chased down the loose ball near the goal line and flipped it toward Ryan Pelly, who caught it at the 5-yard line and carried it into the end zone.

The touchdown gave TVCC its final 31-20 margin and put an exclamation point on a second-half turnaround built around defense and special teams.

“We did what we had to do to get a win, it wasn’t pretty, but we’ll take the win,” TVCC coach Sherard Poteete said after the game.

TVCC finished with 565 yards of total offense, including 344 passing and 221 rushing. Quarterback Jackson LaTour threw touchdown passes of 32 yards to Chauncey Hogg and 61 yards to KJ Madison. Jalan Campiti led the Cardinals’ rushing attack with at least 115 yards, while Maddux Shelby added an 11-yard touchdown run.

Defensively, the Cardinals forced three turnovers. Whitney Fuller and Jordan Stevens each recorded an interception, while Parker Poteete recovered a fumble.

The win was a milestone for Coach Poteete, who moved into second place on the program’s all-time coaching wins list. Poteete entered the season with 49 victories, and Saturday’s win improved his career record to 56-29. He passed Bob Baccarini (55 wins) and Carl Andress (52) and now trails only Brad Smiley, who won 69 games with the Cardinals.

Next up for the Cardinals are the Regional playoffs. TVCC will host Snow College at 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31, at Bruce Field in the Southwest Junior College Football Conference semifinals.

SCORING SUMMARY

• BLINN - 1Q, 10:55 - Andre Salazar 32-yard field goal. -- 3-0

• TVCC - 1Q, 4:00 - Jackson La Tour 32-yard pass to Chauncey Hogg. Cash Hernandez kick good. -- 7-3

• BLINN - 1Q, 0:54 - Salazar 23-yard field goal. -- 7-6

• BLINN - 2Q, 7:34 - Lorenn Johnson 6-yard run. Salazar kick good. -- 13-7

• TVCC - 2Q, 6:24 - Hernandez 33-yard field goal. -- 13-10

• BLINN - 2Q, 6:04 - Semaj Gatson 94-yard run. Salazar kick good. -- 20-10

• TVCC - 2Q, 5:29 - La Tour 61-yard pass to KJ Madison. Hernandez kick good. -- 20-17

• TVCC - 3Q, 10:12 - Maddux Shelby 11-yard run. Hernandez kick good. -- 24-20

• TVCC - 4Q, 2:34 - Ryan Pelly 5-yard blocked punt return following a block by Eddie Robinson Jr. Hernandez kick good. -- 31-20

(Post sponsored by Tinsley Title and Holt Wrecker Service)

Eight minutes.

That’s how long it took for Athens to let Madisonville know they weren’t really in the game.

The Hornets scored on the first play after halftime, recovered an onside kick and scored again, then intercepted a pass and scored a third time to turn a 21-14 lead into a 42-14 advantage.

Athens went on to chase the Mustangs out of Bruce Field 56-21.

It was the kind of all-around performance Coach Zac Harrell had been looking for.

“I challenged them this week,” Harrell said when asked about the team’s play in all three phases. “I didn’t think we had done that yet.”

Harrell wasn’t happy with how Athens finished the first half.

The Hornets missed opportunities to extend their lead late in the second quarter, then allowed Madisonville to score on a 66-yard pass with 29 seconds remaining.

Instead of going into the locker room comfortably ahead, Athens led just 21-14.

“I give credit to our guys and our coaching staff for going in (at halftime) and having our kids ready to come out and play,” he said.

And they wasted no time showing it.

On the first play of the second half, Khion Brown threw a screen pass to Nathan Champion, who raced 75 yards for a touchdown.

The Hornets had another surprise waiting.

Harrell said the coaches noticed an opening in Madisonville’s kickoff return formation. Juan Robles took advantage with an onside kick he recovered himself.

“Juan executed that kick beautifully and covered it,” Harrell said.

Brown found Champion for another touchdown, this time from 13 yards out.

Then the defense got involved.

Gerren Lee Brown intercepted a Madisonville pass, giving Athens the ball at the Mustangs’ 20-yard line. Trey Thompson scored on the next play.

With 3:41 left in the third quarter, Athens led 42-14.

During that stretch, Madisonville gained just 11 yards.

The Hornets finished with 590 yards of offense, including 333 rushing and 257 passing, while holding Madisonville to 266 total yards.

Khion Brown rushed for 144 yards and threw three touchdown passes to Champion. Thompson, returning after missing the Rusk game, led Athens with 149 rushing yards, including a 20-yard touchdown.

Special teams also contributed in the first half. With the game tied 7-7, Danny Kelley blocked a Madisonville field goal attempt. Two plays later, Ja’Coby Wilson turned a short pass from Brown into a 66-yard touchdown that put Athens ahead for good.

Madisonville managed only 76 yards of offense in the second half, including 49 rushing. The Mustangs completed just one pass after halftime, a 27-yard touchdown from Garrick Kovar to Jaiden Dickey.

The win was a strong response to the previous week’s 23-13 game at Rusk, when Athens struggled to move the ball consistently.

Harrell acknowledged that the Hornets weren’t prepared as well as they needed to be against Rusk, but liked how they responded Friday.

“We weren’t really prepared last week and we got hit in the mouth, but the way we bounced back today was special,” he said.

Athens improved to 8-0 overall and 3-0 in District 9-4A Division II.

The Hornets will look to continue their unbeaten season Friday when they host Van. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m.

SCORING SUMMARY

• MAD - 1Q, 7:48 - Garrick Kovar 3-yard run. Kick good. -- 7-0

• ATH - 1Q, 0:54 - Khion Brown 21-yard run. Juan Robles kick good. -- 7-7

• ATH - 2Q, 7:41 - Ja’Coby Wilson 66-yard pass from Khion Brown. Robles kick good. -- 14-7

• ATH - 2Q, 4:32 - Nathan Champion 19-yard pass from Brown. Robles kick good. -- 21-7

• MAD - 2Q, 0:29 - Christopher Tolliver 66-yard pass from Kovar. Kick good. -- 21-14

• ATH - 3Q, 11:47 - Nathan Champion 75-yard pass from Brown. Robles kick good. -- 28-14

• ATH - 3Q, 6:41 - Champion 13-yard pass from Brown. Robles kick good. -- 35-14

• ATH - 3Q, 3:41 - Trey Thompson 20-yard run. Robles kick good. -- 42-14

• MAD - 4Q, 11:53 - Jaiden Dickey 27-yard pass from Kovar. Kick good. -- 42-21

• ATH - 4Q, 6:26 - Ja’Bory Taylor 5-yard run. Robles kick good. -- 49-21

• ATH - 4Q, 1:07 - Kayden Dora 18-yard run. Robles kick good. -- 56-21

(Photo: Coach Harrell talks to the team after beating Madisonville, 56-21.)

Trinity Valley Community College returns to Bruce Field Saturday looking to close out the regular season with a seventh straight win.

The fourth-ranked Cardinals (6-1, 6-0) host Blinn College (4-4, 2-4) at 2 p.m. in TVCC's homecoming game.

The Cardinals have won six straight, including a 54-13 win at Cisco on Oct. 10, and enter Saturday's game in first place in the Southwest Junior College Football Conference.

The Cardinals have been productive on both sides of the ball. Quarterback Jackson La Tour has thrown for 1,652 yards and 14 touchdowns, while Tavias Gordon leads the running game with 529 yards. Defensively, TVCC has recorded 31 sacks and 11 interceptions through seven games.

Blinn's record may be deceiving.

The Buccaneers had won two straight, beating Snow College 20-14 and New Mexico Military 20-16, before falling to Cisco 45-42 in double overtime last Saturday.

Blinn QB Jack Emerson has thrown for 1,183 yards and seven touchdowns this season. Running back Bryson Batts leads the Buccaneers with 681 rushing yards and six touchdowns, including 177 yards against Cisco.

Blinn also has a familiar face on its roster. Quarterback David Richardson, a 2025 Athens High School graduate, has appeared in five games for the Buccaneers, throwing for 301 yards and two touchdowns. He has also rushed for three scores.

For the Cardinals, Saturday is another opportunity to build on a season that has put them among the nation's top teams.

TVCC moved up one spot to No. 4 in Monday's NJCAA Division I rankings, making it the highest-ranked team in the conference.

The Cardinals will begin postseason play Oct. 31 in the SWJCFC regional semifinals.

(Post sponsored by Tinsley Title and Holt Wrecker Service)

Athens had punted just three times in its first six games this season.

Last week against Rusk, that changed.

With injuries disrupting the offense and the Eagles making it difficult to move the ball, Athens needed special teams to step up.

They delivered, helping the Hornets beat Rusk 23-13.

With the Hornets struggling, Juan Robles nailed a 70-yard punt that nearly pinned Rusk at its own goal line. The defense forced a stop, and Athens took advantage of the field position to score.

According to Coach Zac Harrell, it was exactly the kind of situation the Hornets had been preparing for.

Harrell said he reminded the punting unit during practice the previous Wednesday that it could not afford to lose focus just because the offense had rarely needed it.

“We can’t fall asleep on how important this unit is,” Harrell told his players.

Athens needed that preparation against Rusk, and it paid off. Athens punted three times, flipping the field each time in a tight game.

Harrell credited special teams coordinator Garrett Smith with preparing the Hornets, but he also pointed to several players whose contributions rarely show up in the statistics.

Adam Bones has become an important part of multiple special teams units, including punt returns, kickoffs and punt coverage. Harrell specifically mentioned his work covering the final punt against Rusk.

Julius Cofer has contributed on both punt and kickoff coverage, while Satchel Williams handles deep snapping duties on punts and returns kicks.

Then there is Thatcher Diamond, whose work as the holder doesn’t get the attention it deserves.

Against Rusk, Diamond handled a difficult snap on an extra-point attempt, getting the ball down in time for Robles to give Athens a 14-13 lead.

“I don’t think people understand how important those little plays are,” Harrell said.

It’s the kind of play that can go unnoticed when it works, but can change a game when it doesn’t.

And Rusk was hardly the first time special teams made a difference.

Against Pine Tree, Williams blocked an extra point that helped Athens protect its lead in a 50-48 win. Against Kaufman, Robles kicked a 36-yard field goal as the first half expired after the Hornets rushed their field goal unit onto the field with no timeouts.

Williams also returned a punt 39 yards for a touchdown against Brownsboro.

Even the threat of a big play can make a difference. Harrell said Athens’ ability to recover onside kicks forces opponents to account for that possibility instead of simply setting up for a long kickoff return.

Everyone knows Athens has plenty of offensive weapons who can change a game in a hurry.

But as the Hornets showed against Rusk, sometimes the difference comes from players doing their jobs on plays that rarely get much attention.

(Post sponsored by Tinsley Title and Holt Wrecker Service)

Courtesy TVCC Sports Information

A standout performance during Trinity Valley Community College’s International Night victory has earned Cardinal Volleyball’s Beatriz Bianchi’s national recognition.

Bianchi was named the NJCAA Division I Offensive Player of the Week for Week 8 following her performance in the Cardinals’ 3-0 victory over Wharton County Junior College on October 15 at Cardinal Gym.

The honor marks the first NJCAA Player of the Week recognition for TVCC Volleyball during the 2026 season. Bianchi led the Cardinals with 11 kills on 13 attempts without committing a single attacking error, finishing the match with an impressive .846 hitting percentage.

She also contributed 10 assists and nine digs, falling just one dig shy of a triple-double while helping TVCC secure its seventh consecutive victory.

Bianchi’s ability to contribute offensively, facilitate scoring opportunities and provide defensive support played an important role in the Cardinals’ success.

The national recognition comes as TVCC continues to build momentum under Head Coach Patricia Figueiredo. The Cardinals recently moved into the NJCAA Division I Top 10 for the first time this season, earning the No. 9 national rank in the Week 8 poll.

Bianchi and the Cardinals will look to carry that momentum into the remainder of their schedule as they continue to push toward postseason competition.

On this week’s Athens Hornets Podcast, Coach Zac Harrell lookes back at a hard-fought 23-13 win over Rusk and ahead to a Madisonville team that has found its stride in district play.

Finding a Way Against Rusk

Athens managed just 23 points against Rusk after averaging more than 50 through its first six games. Injuries to Charli Kiser and starting right guard Braiden Marcs added to the challenge, with Trey Thompson already unavailable.

But the defense responded with nine sacks, two interceptions and a safety, holding Rusk to 162 yards.

“I’m very proud of the resiliency, the toughness. I think that was that was shown on Friday,” Harrell said.

Special teams also helped change field position, while Harrell took responsibility for the offensive struggles and said he needs to do a better job putting his players in position to succeed.

For Harrell, the game showed that Athens can find a way to win even when things go wrong.

Scouting Madisonville

Athens is 7-0, but Friday night’s game against Madisonville may be one of the Hornets’ biggest tests yet.

Both teams enter the game at Bruce Field with 2-0 district records. Madisonville is just 3-4 overall, but Harrell warned against judging the Mustangs by their record. Madisonville played a difficult nondistrict schedule that included Needville, Navasota, Sealy, and Jarrell.

“That’s a mistake, because they’re a good football team,” Harrell said of overlooking Madisonville.

The Mustangs have since beaten Rusk 56-37 and Van 49-7 to join Athens atop the District 9-4A Division II standings.

The Mustangs are coached by Russell Urbantke, whose program has established a reputation for competitive football.

“They have really good athletes, they play hard, they do a good job coaching,” Harrell said.

Madisonville runs a spread offense led by junior quarterback Malik Kovar, who has 14 touchdown passes and seven rushing touchdowns this season.

The Mustangs also feature running backs Carmelo Gilbert and Kedrick Moffett, along with receiver Konnor Greer.

Harrell said Madisonville moves its backs and slot receivers around, sometimes putting three in the backfield, creating challenges similar to those presented by Athens’ offense.

“They don’t have a lot of weaknesses,” Harrell said.

Defensively, Madisonville uses multiple fronts and aggressive coverage, with several players contributing on both sides of the ball.

Keys to Victory

Word of the Week: Step Up

Harrell reminded his players that games like Friday’s are why they have worked since the summer.

“From now on, the rest of the season, this is why you do it. This is why you put in all the hours that you put in,” he said.

He warned against becoming tired or complacent as the season wears on. Athens has worked to reach this point, and now the Hornets must take advantage of the opportunity.

Keys to the Game

• Step up -- Players must be ready to take on bigger roles as injuries affect the roster.

• Win the battle up front -- Harrell said Rusk was probably the first opponent this season to get the better of Athens along the offensive line.

• Get after the quarterback -- Athens must pressure Kovar, contain his running ability and avoid Madisonville’s misdirection.

• Win the turnover battle -- Athens is plus-six in turnovers this season, and Harrell said Madisonville has done an excellent job protecting the football during district play.

• Win each day -- Friday’s performance begins with preparation throughout the week.

Athens (7-0, 2-0) hosts Madisonville (3-4, 2-0) at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 23, at Bruce Field. The game is also Pink Out Night.

ATHENS, TEXAS — October 21, 2026 — The Henderson County HELP Center is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a grant from the Texas Bar Foundation to support the launch of a new initiative, HELPing Seniors Through Crisis and Beyond.

The new program will help senior adults in Henderson County navigate challenges that can arise during times of crisis and victimization of crime. Through this initiative, the HELP Center will connect seniors with appropriate resources, information, referrals, and support to help address immediate needs while building a stronger path toward long-term stability. This program will also allow a staff member to inform Henderson County seniors about types of victimizations and their rights as a crime victim.

“Senior adults can face unique challenges when unexpected circumstances arise,” said Leslie Saunders, Chief Executive Officer of the Henderson County HELP Center. “This grant will allow us to expand our ability to help seniors understand their options, connect with the right resources, and receive support during some of the most difficult moments they may experience. We are grateful to the Texas Bar Foundation for investing in this important work and helping us strengthen our community’s safety net for older adults.”

The HELPing Seniors Through Crisis and Beyond program builds upon the HELP Center’s existing commitment to helping individuals and families navigate crisis and connect with community resources. By strengthening resource navigation and connections to legal and community services, the program will help seniors access assistance that may otherwise be difficult to find or navigate on their own.

“We are honored to receive this grant and grateful for the Texas Bar Foundation’s confidence in the Henderson County HELP Center,” Saunders said. “This funding will help us reach seniors who may be facing challenges alone and provide them with a connection to the resources and support they need.”

The Henderson County HELP Center is grateful to the Texas Bar Foundation for its support and for recognizing the importance of providing seniors with access to resources and assistance when they need it most.

“Since its inception in 1965, the Texas Bar Foundation has awarded more than $32 million in grants to law-related programs. Supported by members of the State Bar of Texas, the Texas Bar Foundation is the nation’s largest charitably-funded bar foundation.”

The grant represents an important investment in the well-being of Henderson County’s senior population and will help the HELP Center expand its reach and strengthen its ability to respond to seniors facing challenging circumstances.

About the Henderson County HELP Center

The Henderson County HELP Center is dedicated to helping individuals and families in Henderson County navigate crisis, connect with community resources, and find pathways toward greater stability. Through compassionate assistance, information, referrals, and partnerships with local organizations, the HELP Center works to strengthen individuals, families, and the community.

(Post sponsored by Tinsley Title and Holt Wrecker Service)

TVCC women’s soccer has another first to add to its record-setting season.

The Cardinals beat Navarro Tuesday, 1-0, to claim the program’s first conference championship and improve to 16-2 in the regular season, including 13-1 in conference play.

Yu Nakai scored the only goal of the match in the 18th minute off an assist from Kate Garrett, and the TVCC defense made it stand.

The championship continues a season of firsts for the Cardinals. TVCC has already set the program record for regular-season wins and defeated Navarro for the first time earlier this year.

Coach Adam Sanchez said the championship deserves to be celebrated, but he does not want it to become the team’s finish line.

“It’s a great accomplishment for sure. The toughest region in the country and firsts are always special. Celebrating our accomplishment is important and should be done. The players deserve it,” Sanchez said. “However, we aren’t going to dwell on it.”

Nakai’s goal also came at an important time personally.

“I went through a tough slump, but I’m finally getting my confidence back and playing my style of soccer again, the kind I know I am more than capable of,” Nakai said. “Scoring this goal means a lot to me, but I believe this is only the beginning.”

The Cardinals now turn their attention to the postseason, where Nakai said the goals are even bigger.

“We want to win the postseason tournament, compete for a national championship, and finish what we’ve started!” she said.

For TVCC, though, the regular season already has a place in the record book: 16 wins, a 13-1 conference record and the first championship in program history.

(Post sponsored by Tinsley Title and Holt Wrecker Service)

There’s something dark moving just beneath the surface of Kris Midthun’s Annie Wilkes. You can’t quite see what it is, but you know it’s dangerous.

And when it finally breaks the surface, look out.

Midthun is excellent as Annie in Henderson County Performing Arts Center’s production of “Misery.” Even when Annie is being kind and caring, there’s something about her that makes you uneasy. You just never know when she’s going to snap.

Kyle Johnson is equally good as Paul Sheldon, the injured novelist trapped in Annie’s home. He spends much of the play confined to a bed, which can’t be an easy way to carry a lead role. But Johnson makes it work. You can see the pain and exhaustion wearing Paul down as time passes, along with a growing sense of resignation. And underneath it all, there’s anger.

Midthun and Johnson work well together. Annie is unpredictable and dangerous, while Paul is just trying to survive another day.

Director Joclyn Ewers has put together a strong production, and it’s obvious a lot of thought went into these characters. That attention to detail really pays off in the scene everyone familiar with “Misery” knows is coming.

Yes, that scene.

I knew what was going to happen, but that didn’t stop me from sitting on the edge of my seat, squirming and wincing as the moment got closer.

And when it came, it delivered ... and I whimpered.

Matt Butterfield rounds out the three-person cast as Buster, the local sheriff. Butterfield is believable in the role and provides a little normalcy in a story where almost nothing is normal.

The set enhances the production. Eric Davis and Randy Ewers did an excellent job creating Annie’s house. It’s a clever design that allows you to watch Annie move through the house and see Paul’s struggle as he tries to get around on his own. It also gives the actors plenty of room to work without losing that feeling of being trapped in Annie’s home.

A screen above the set shows the mountains and snowy weather outside, adding to the feeling of isolation. Wes Akin’s lighting and sound design also play an important role, particularly during storms. The flashes of lightning and changing light help set the mood and remind you just how far Paul is from help.

One word of warning: This one isn’t for the kids or the easily offended. “Misery” has some disturbing moments, and HCPAC doesn’t shy away from them.

“Misery” runs Oct. 22-25 at Henderson County Performing Arts Center in Athens. Tickets are available at hcpac.org.

Cast

• Kris Midthun as Annie Wilkes

• Kyle Johnson as Paul Sheldon

• Matt Butterfield as Buster

Crew

• Joclyn Ewers, Director

• Carissa Hunter, Assistant Director

• Alyce Pine, Stage Manager

• Troy Martin, Production Manager

• Renotta Mayo, Light Operator

• Allison Martin, Sound Operator

• Kristin Stewart, Backstage Crew

• Kay Shields, Backstage Crew

• Eric Davis, Set Construction

• Randy Ewers, Set Construction

• Wes Akin, Lighting and Sound Design

• Pat Jousan Williams, Costumes

(Post sponsored by Tinsley Title and Holt Wrecker Service)

Trinity Valley Community College will honor five former students Friday, Oct. 23, during its 2026 Hall of Distinguished Alumni Awards Dinner at Athens Country Club.

This year’s honorees have built careers in education, business, broadcasting and horticulture.

Tasha Franklin

Tasha Franklin attended TVCC from 2000 to 2002 and was Darla Mansfield’s first Cardette officer. She is now the head drill team director and dance teacher at Irving High School, where she was named the 2026-27 Campus Teacher of the Year. Franklin has taught dance workshops and judged competitions in Japan and continues to work with the TVCC Cardettes.

Stephen Magee

Stephen Magee attended TVCC from 1996 to 1998 and later returned as an employee. He now works at Elder Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. Magee serves on the TVCC Foundation Board and helps raise funds to support Henderson County students’ education through the Henderson County Go Texan Committee.

Kaitlin Carroll

Kaitlin Carroll began taking TVCC classes while attending Neches High School and earned her associate degree through the college’s Palestine campus. She is now program director for East Texas Radio Group and the morning host for KYYK and KNET in Palestine. Carroll is a second-generation TVCC graduate.

Gary Reaves

Gary Reaves graduated from TVCC in 1975, where he played in the college bands and served as freshman class president. He has spent nearly 50 years in horticulture and owns Malakoff Nursery. Reaves also mentors TVCC student-athletes through Friends of the Cardinals.

Chris McCool

Chris McCool took summer courses at TVCC before graduating from Texas A&M University in three years. He spent 28 years with PepsiCo, retiring as senior vice president of marketing and sales. He later worked seven years at Sysco Foods and has served on several nonprofit boards.

The honorees were selected following a nomination process open to TVCC faculty, staff, alumni and community members.

Tickets for Friday’s dinner are available here.

I knew the Athens defense put a lot of pressure on Rusk quarterback Maleki Overstreet Friday night, but I didn’t realize just how much until I saw the defensive stats.

Nine sacks and eight quarterback pressures!

Ja’Bory Taylor led the way with three sacks, while Thomas Faulk and Danny Kelley added two each. Marvin Lyons and Cam Walker each recorded a sack.

Kelley’s fourth-quarter sack in the end zone resulted in a safety that gave Athens a 16-13 lead.

The Hornets also intercepted two passes, both by Satchel Williams.

Athens held Rusk to just 162 yards of offense, including only nine rushing yards in the second half.

We knew the defense was good Friday night. The numbers show just how good.

PHOTO: Athens Defensive Coordinator Chayse Rives talks to members of the defense Friday night.

Video: Ja’Bory Taylor scores on a 2-yard run.

(Post sponsored by Tinsley Title and Holt Wrecker Service)

RUSK -- This one belongs to the defense.

Athens held Rusk to just 162 yards of total offense, intercepted two passes, and added a fourth-quarter safety Friday night to beat the Eagles 23-13.

The Hornets improved to 7-0 overall and 2-0 in district play, but this one looked nothing like their previous six wins.

“The defense played lights out,” said Athens Coach Zac Harrell. “If they don’t play as good as they did, we don’t win that game. I’m super proud of that unit.”

Athens held Rusk to 94 yards in the first half and just 68 in the second, including only nine yards rushing after halftime.

The Hornets also put consistent pressure on Rusk the quarterback, making it difficult for him to scramble to extend plays.

Satchel Williams intercepted two passes, including one in the final minutes, and Danny Kelley sacked Overstreet in the end zone for a safety with 8:21 remaining in the fourth quarter.

The defensive effort was huge with Athens struggling on offense and losing players to injuries. By halftime, the Hornets were without running backs Trey Thompson and Charli Kiser, along with guard Braiden Marcs.

Special teams also played a major role.

After an Athens three-and-out, a 70-yard punt by Juan Robles went into the end zone for a touchback. The defense then pushed Rusk backward, forcing the Eagles to punt from their own 4-yard line.

Athens took over at the Rusk 39 and turned the field position created by the special teams and defense into its first touchdown, a 2-yard run by Ja’Bory Taylor.

The Hornets also pinned Rusk at its own 4 with another punt that went out of bounds.

Harrell said Athens had punted only three times all season entering Friday’s game, but the coaches continued stressing the importance of being prepared when the punt team was needed.

Friday night was that night.

The offense eventually found enough answers to finish the job.

Athens had only 67 yards of offense in the first half but gained 183 after halftime. Khion Brown scored on a 1-yard run in the third quarter to give the Hornets a 14-13 lead.

Kelley’s safety pushed the lead to 16-13, and Brown later connected with Gerren Lee Brown on a 49-yard touchdown pass that put Athens ahead by 10 with 6:09 remaining.

Athens finished with 250 yards of offense, far below its usual production. But on a night when the defense controlled the game, that was enough.

Athens returns to Bruce Field on Friday, Oct. 23, to face Madisonville in another district matchup.

SCORING SUMMARY

• RUS - 2Q, 7:12 - Maleki Overstreet 9-yard run. Walker Bateman kick good. -- 7-0

• ATH - 2Q, 1:13 - Ja’Bory Taylor 2-yard run. Juan Robles kick good. -- 7-7

• RUS - 3Q, 10:51 - Kiceriun Teague 4-yard pass from Maleki Overstreet. 2-point conversion failed. -- 13-7

• ATH - 3Q, 4:41 - Khion Brown 1-yard run. Juan Robles kick good. -- 14-13

• ATH - 4Q, 8:21 - Safety, Danny Kelley sacks Maleki Overstreet in end zone. -- 16-13

• ATH - 4Q, 6:09 - Gerren Lee Brown 49-yard pass from Khion Brown. Juan Robles kick good. -- 23-13

TVCC Coach Greg Heiar spent part of Wednesday counting his losses.

Five starters. His top two players off the bench. Two assistant coaches. Even a team manager who served almost like another assistant.

That’s a lot to replace.

But apparently the rest of Region XIV isn’t too concerned.

Despite all those departures, Trinity Valley received nine of 10 first-place votes in the conference’s preseason men’s basketball poll released Wednesday, Oct. 14, during media day in Athens.

Heiar said he has other things than polls to worry about right now.

“We’re a long ways away from being a good team right now,” he said.

Heiar pointed to defense, rebounding, conditioning and turnovers as areas that need improvement. He also wants to see the Cardinals become a more physical team.

“I think that’s the biggest key, is getting this team tougher,” Heiar said.

The Cardinals will have opportunities to find out how much progress they are making.

Heiar said this year’s nonconference schedule is the toughest he has put together in his 10 seasons as a head coach. He believes those games will help prepare TVCC for the demands of Region XIV.

And those are big demands.

Heiar called Region XIV the best conference he has coached in, pointing to the quality of the coaches, the different styles of play and the difficulty of winning on the road.

The conference schedule includes 20 games, with teams facing each other at home and on the road.

Heiar believes that format produces a deserving champion.

For now, Trinity Valley enters the season as the team everyone else is chasing.

Heiar’s message Wednesday was that the Cardinals still have plenty of work to do before they can live up to that billing.

Region XIV coaches believe Trinity Valley Community College is the team to beat in women’s basketball this season.

Maybe so, but Lady Cardinals Coach Precious Ivy knows her team still has work to do.

TVCC received six of seven first-place votes in the Region XIV preseason coaches poll released Wednesday during the conference’s Basketball Media Day, well ahead of Kilgore and Tyler, which tied for second.

But while the expectations are high, Ivy said injuries have slowed her team’s preparation for the 2026-27 season.

Several players have missed practice during the preseason, making it difficult for the Lady Cardinals to develop the chemistry they need.

“We’re slowly, but surely getting everybody back,” Ivy said. “We’re learning each other. We’re getting the chemistry that we need.”

Ivy said the situation reminds her of last season, when TVCC also had some early challenges before putting together a strong postseason run.

“It’s a marathon, not a sprint,” she said.

There is plenty of experience returning to help the Lady Cardinals through those early growing pains.

Ivy said the team has six returning players, several of whom started games last season. That gives TVCC a group that understands the demands of the season and what it takes to make a postseason run.

Among those players is sophomore guard Kalyse Buffin, a Tyler High School product who Ivy brought with her to Media Day.

Ivy said expectations are high for Buffin, who began finding her rhythm later in last season’s campaign.

Another important returner is Taylor Day-Davis.

Ivy praised Day-Davis for developing her offensive game as the season progressed, particularly with her midrange shooting and ability to score around the basket.

The Lady Cardinals also return 6-foot-1 forward Nneoma Aliozor, whose improvement has impressed Ivy.

Aliozor has developed her scoring ability with both hands and can defend in the paint or on the perimeter.

Autumn Sherman gives TVCC an outside shooting threat, while Nuria Puig, a sophomore from Barcelona, Spain, brings versatility as a shooter, driver and rebounder.

Jaliyah McWain is also returning after suffering an ACL injury last season. Ivy said she expects McWain to provide leadership but understands that working her way back will require patience.

The newcomers should help strengthen the Lady Cardinals defensively.

Ivy specifically mentioned freshmen guards Tamiah Harrison, Kurynn McNeill and Jamie Solomon as players capable of providing valuable minutes and defensive pressure.

That defensive emphasis may be the most important part of Ivy’s plan.

Despite the returning offensive talent, Ivy made it clear Wednesday that the Lady Cardinals intend to build their identity around defense, toughness and consistent effort.

“Defense can always travel with you,” Ivy said.

She emphasized that offense may not be as dependable from game to game, making defense especially important.

Ivy also credited her coaching staff, including returning assistant coach Myyah West and new assistant Lauren Thompson, for their work with the team’s post players.

The goal is to return to the Region XIV championship game and earn another opportunity to compete at the national tournament.

Getting there will require the Lady Cardinals to stay healthy, develop chemistry and establish the defensive identity Ivy wants.

The conference coaches believe Trinity Valley has the talent to finish on top.

Now Ivy and the Lady Cardinals have a season to prove them right.