Boys: SHS's Brunson has big day

Statesboro has a long tradition of talented running backs, and Diquan Brunson wasted no time getting a head start on his career.

In his first appearance for the Blue Devils, Brunson made an immediate impact, rushing eight times for 88 yards and a touchdown in Statesboro's 21-7 win over Groves in last Friday's preseason scrimmage at Womack Field.

"I was confident that I could go out there and do something good," said Brunson. "I didn't know going in how much I would get to run, but I knew that I could do something every time I got the ball."

With the stable of Devil running backs thinner than most years, Brunson may see action with the varsity sooner than most.

"I think we have some good running backs, but I think I can help," said Brunson. "Hopefully, I can get in there and produce."

Statesboro is back on the practice field for now, but opens its season August 27 at Brunswick.

Girls: SEB's Wilkes gets 1st win

Many pitchers have to put in their time before pitching their first shutout.

It took Taylor Wilkes all of one game.

In Southeast Bulloch's season opener, the freshman right-hander was on her game, fanning eight and allowing just one hit in a 5-0 victory over Statesboro.

"I felt pretty good out there," said Wilkes. "I was a little nervous, but I trusted my stuff and I knew that I could count on my teammates to pick me up."

Wilkes faced some adversity immediately, but shrugged it off with the skill of a seasoned veteran.

In ther first inning, Statesboro loaded the bases with no outs, putting Wilkes on the spot just a few pitches into her high school Career.

Wilkes responded, escaping the jam with two strikeouts and shutting down the Devils the rest of the way.

"That's great to see, " said SEB coach Aimee Civalier. "I was a little nervous in the dugout, but she kept her composure and really responded out there."