Golden Tigers continue summer workouts

By Bernie Moussad for the FCT

bernie.moussad@fct.wpengine.com

The Russellville Golden Tigers have not been taking it easy this summer. They have been hard at work playing teams from the area, preparing their bodies and minds for the upcoming season.

The Tigers recently attended a 7-on-7 last Thursday at Hoover High School. They had an overall record of 3-2. To Coach Mark Heaton, this is not time wasted but a time to see what his 2016 crew can do and what they can’t. “Overall at times we played very well, but we also found areas where we needed improvement.”

Russellville will be hosting a 7-on-7 Friday, which will give the team another opportunity to show how they have improved and give Heaton an idea of how they will hold up this season.

After losing many starters this past year, Heaton will be looking to this year’s seniors to pick up the slack and set the example. Luckily, many of his seniors have been starters for the past two years.

Colin Garrison has made some major plays for the Tigers on offense but also on defense. Heaton said, “He can play both sides of the ball,” which is just what this team needs.

There’s also quarterback Peyton Nichols. “He’s thrown for over 4,000 yards and helped to score about 52 touchdowns,” said Heaton.

Austin Stidham “has had ten or so Division I offers just this year.” He was chosen for the 2015 Alabama All State First Team Offense.

Heaton also said he has a few student athletes who will be playing major roles, such as Devin Buckhalter. He’ll be a sophomore this year, so he has plenty of time to continue improving his game.

The Golden Tigers will be kicking off their 2016/17 season with their annual Jamboree. They will be playing the Athens High School Golden Eagles Aug. 19 at 7 p.m.