Boys: BA's Evans hits his stride

Many questions surround Bulloch Academy as it is transitioning out of its vaunted triple-option offense to an I-formation attack this season.

In the Gators' first scrimmage of the season, senior wide receiver and running back Jaylen Evans went a long way towards easing the minds of fans.

On just the second play of the night, Evans hauled in a 73-yard touchdown pass from Loy Waters in an aerial display that could prove to be a potent addition this season.

"I like that I can be in on everything," said Evans. "Running the ball is great, but I think that we can be good with a bunch of guys that can run and catch."

As a senior, Evans has also taken up a leadership role on a Gator squad that is scrambling to replace starters at many key positions while learning a new playbook.

"I'm trying to set a good example," said Evans. "I know that all of us seniors are. We're learning all of the new things and then trying to help everyone else do the same."

Bulloch will participate in its fourth scrimmage of the preseason tonight at Stratford Academy.

Girls: SHS's Hadden gets a pair of wins

Statesboro softball has certainly seen more than its share of struggles over the last few years, but the Lady Blue Devils have plenty to be optimistic about after winning their first two games of the season.

Both victories came at the expense of Portal (a 15-0 win last week, followed by a 23-0 rout Monday) and senior pitcher Lauren Hadden earned the win in both games.

"We're definitely happy to get a couple of wins," said Hadden. "I think it's something that we can build off of. This year's team has a lot of positive energy and we're looking forward to each game."

Hadden pitched a pair of innings in each of the two wins — both were halted after three innings — and notched four strikeouts on both occasions.

She has come a long way since her first varsity pitching experience two years ago and is hopeful that more wins await.

"I've been working hard over the summer with pitching lessons," said Hadden. "I haven't taken a long break from it, so I think that has a lot to do with getting better faster. I just keep focusing on throwing strikes and helping my team."