The SEC Tournament tips off in Nashville on Wednesday with numerous teams vying to raise a banner ahead of an upcoming run in the NCAA Tournament, and others needing a strong showing in order to make the field at all.

Things get started on Wednesday afternoon with the first four games between teams who did not earn a single bye. The top four seeds automatically earn a double-bye to Friday’s quarterfinal round, while seeds four through eight will begin their tournaments on Thursday.

Playing on Wednesday meanwhile means you finished 9th or worse in the conference, a group which includes the Auburn Tigers, who desperately need to win at least a game or two to have a chance to hear their name called during Selection Sunday this weekend.

Here is a look at the full bracket:

Auburn will face Mississippi State Wednesday afternoon for the right to play Tennessee, and while they could be left out of the NCAA Tournament entirely if they do anything short of winning the whole thing in Nashville, two wins would have them in a much better spot than they sit today, following the dreadful February they had.

Meanwhile Alabama as the No. 2 overall seed awaits their fate until Friday night, where the Tide is set to face the winner between No. 7 seed Georgia and either Ole Miss or Texas.

Should Alabama secure a win on Friday, it will likely be a rematch with Arkansas after an overtime classic in Tuscaloosa a couple of weeks back.

The most likely winner by far is the regular season champion and defending national champion, the Florida Gators, who look as strong as they did a year ago.

The Gators will face the winner of No. 8 Missouri and either LSU or Kentucky in their Friday game, with a Saturday date most likely with either Tennessee, Auburn or Vanderbilt.

Things will come to a head on Sunday afternoon with the winner being decided at 12:00 p.m. CST, and the main narrative is whether or not anyone could upset Florida. Those hoping to see a third Iron Bowl matchup are likely going to be disappointed with the only possibility of it coming on Sunday in the championship round.

For the top seeds, they are battling for not a whole lot other than pride, but some of the teams playing on Wednesday night likely only have a chance to make the tournament by winning in Nashville.

Time will tell who comes out on top, but it should be another fun edition of the event.

Scottsboro High School has been reclassified to Class 4A after the Alabama High School Athletic Association’s Central Board of Control voted to adjust the school’s classification based on verified enrollment data, according to Scottsboro City Schools.

The decision follows a dispute Yellowhammer News previously reported between the district and AHSAA over Average Daily Membership (ADM) figures used in the 2026–2028 classification cycle. District officials had argued that Scottsboro’s ADM had been overstated and that a correction submitted during AHSAA’s review window was not reflected when classifications were first released.

In a new statement, Superintendent Jennifer Williams said the Central Board approved the reclassification after reviewing updated documentation and data.

“I am very grateful to Executive Director Heath Harmon and the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) Central Board for thoroughly reviewing the process and supporting the reclassification of Scottsboro High School based on the accurate ADM,” Williams said. “While this decision does create some movement and adjustments, I believe it is the best outcome for our student-athletes.”

Williams said the district appreciates the association’s willingness to revisit the figures and ensure competitive fairness.

“We appreciate their willingness to carefully examine the data and ensure that the final decision reflects accurate enrollment information and supports fair competition,” she said.

District leaders had previously said Scottsboro’s verified ADM supported placement in Class 4A rather than Class 5A and had been exploring legal and legislative options following the initial classification decision.

Williams indicated recent discussions with AHSAA leadership were productive and collaborative, leading to the revised outcome.

The reclassification applies to the 2026–2028 classification period and will affect Scottsboro High School’s athletic competition alignment going forward.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.

In this episode of the Yellowhammer Sports Podcast, host CJ Duncan welcomes special guest Quentin Riggins, a former Auburn University linebacker, current Senior Vice President at Alabama Power, and member of the Auburn University Board of Trustees.

The duo recaps last week’s games, including South Carolina vs. Alabama and LSU’s upset of Ole Miss, before they shift to Quentin’s extensive background in Auburn athletics and his professional journey post-football.

Quentin shares his path to Auburn after a standout high school game and the influence Bo Jackson had on his decision to play for the Tigers. He touches on his playing days under legendary coach Pat Dye. The two also discuss the evolution of sports, the impact of dual-sport athletes like Bo Jackson and Frank Thomas, and how Auburn can return to its championship-winning ways by focusing on building strong offensive and defensive lines.

Also available on Spotify. 🎙️🔊

The Alabama Independent School Association (AISA) has formally applied for affiliate membership with the National Federation of High School State Associations (NFHS).

AISA aims to foster enhanced collaboration and standardization among its member schools and their athletic programs through membership with the NFHS, taking a significant stride toward advancing high school sports and activities.

“After so many years of restricting competitive choice in Alabama, we are hopeful that the AHSAA Board of Control will support our application for NFHS affiliate membership and support competitive choice by allowing their members to compete against our members if they choose to do so. In addition to providing more local opponents for middle and high school students to compete against, which will work toward improving travel expenses, the competitive choice will lift community spirit and create local interest in the respective schools and programs,” said AISA Executive Director Michael McLendon.

In the 19 states surveyed across the southeast, only Alabama and Louisiana do not allow competitive choice among associations within their respective states.

“The more we surveyed states and learned about the various relationships shared by associations within each state, the more disappointed and discouraged we became that Alabama continues this practice. In every state we surveyed, we discovered that competitive choice resulted in positive outcomes, including less travel time and more instructional time for student athletes, enhanced competitive opportunities, and stronger communities through local public and independent school competition,” said McLendon.

The application is now contingent upon the approval of the Alabama High School Athletic Association’s (AHSAA) Central Board of Control. If approved, the application will then go before a regional board of the NFHS, which makes the final decision regarding the AISA’s application. The AHSAA, the primary governing body for high school sports in Alabama, will meet Wednesday to deliberate on AISA’s request.

With renewed optimism, AISA anticipates a positive outcome that ushers in a new chapter of cooperation and collaboration within Alabama and the broader region. The association is unwavering in its mission to deliver exemplary experiences for its student-athletes and views NFHS affiliate membership and competitive choice as cornerstones in this quest.

A recent update to AHSAA bylaws allows its members to compete against out-of-state opponents who are affiliate members of the NFHS, which includes members of the Mid-South Association of Independent Schools (formerly Mississippi Association of Independent Schools) and the Mid-South Association of Homeschool Athletics, an association of homeschool athletic programs located in Mississippi and Alabama. This expanded opportunity for AHSAA members to compete against the homeschool and private school organizations in Mississippi makes for a richer, more exciting sports narrative that should be valued in our state as much as it is valued in competition with out-of-state associations.

The AISA’s efforts to become an affiliate member of the NFHS dates back to 2013 when the bid was disapproved by Section 3 – a regional division within NFHS representing eight Southern states. AISA has remained steadfast in its commitment to elevate interscholastic athletics in alignment with national standards by continuing to adhere to NFHS rules and procedures.

AISA’s persistent endeavor reflects its dedication to enhancing competitive opportunities, ensuring consistent and high-quality experiences for student-athletes, and forging partnerships with other NFHS members and affiliate members. Approval by the AHSAA Central Board of Control and the NFHS Regional Board would mark a significant step toward realizing these objectives, facilitating greater competitive choice and fostering collaboration between AISA and the AHSAA.

For a printable version, click here. Pro tip: Save the image below to your phone for quick and easy access all weekend.

(Note: All times are Central)

HUNTSVILLE – While athletes were competing for gold, Huntsville was seeing green.

And, a lot of it.

The Rocket City is quickly becoming a sports city, if last week was any indication, and the city’s coffers are big winners.

With four big sporting events – including a world championship – filling hotel rooms and restaurants, Huntsville saw a $4.2 million economic impact.

The city had the attention of the para-cycling world with the UCI Para-Cycling Road World Cup, the first time the event had been held outside Europe.

And, that wasn’t all.

Major League Fishing hosted its Sponsor Pro-Am Tournament, the RunningLane Track Championships took over Milton Frank Stadium, and the USTA Southern Pro Circuit Championship lasted the entire week at the Athletic Club of Alabama.

When you throw in the first-year Huntsville City FC’s first two home matches; an extended homestand for the Rocket City Trash Pandas; and, a Memorial Day tradition, the Cotton Row Run, you’ve got the makings of a major sports extravaganza.

“This week was a great showcase for Huntsville and the ability of our community to not only host major events, but multiple events simultaneously,” said Mark Russell, executive director of the Huntsville Sports Commission. “Having great partners enables our community to accomplish great things.”

On top of the economic impact, the four big events generating more than $318,000 in taxes and resulted in more than 6,100 room nights booked in Huntsville and Madison County hotels.

“We love having groups visit Huntsville and this past week gave our city a tremendous showcase that engaged visitors from around the world for the first time,” said Judy Ryals, President/CEO of the Huntsville/Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau. “The success of this past week is a credit to the teamwork throughout Huntsville to make great things happen.”

The Para-Cycling Road World Cup, itself, filled 3,700 hotel rooms and created an economic impact of $2.4 million to the area, with some teams staying more than a week in preparation. There were more than 350 athletes representing 41 countries in the event.

“Hosting the Para-Cycling Road World Cup and introducing the teams and competitors from around the world to our great city carries our message that Huntsville is a great place to live, work and play,” said Chip Cherry, CEO of the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce. “Events like these are tremendous tools for our economic development activities as we show the commitment of our city to a wide array of meaningful quality of life events.”

U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) is continuing his fight to block the Biden administration’s proposed changes to Title IX.

Last week, the U.S. House passed Tuberville’s Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act, which would ensure Title IX protection for female athletes and fair, safe competition in women’s sports throughout the United States.

So far, the Democratic leadership in the Senate hasn’t shown any intention to take up the legislation in the upper chamber.

During a recent episode of “Newt’s World,” Tuberville once again defended his bill.

“Joe Biden and his administration are attacking Title IX,” Tuberville said. “And there’s a lot of people that were for Title IX … years ago that are attacking it the same way … I don’t understand it because what’s going on now will really affect Title IX. It’s going to tear it up. It’s going to tear it from the inside out like our country’s being destroyed from the inside out right now, and we have to get control of this.”

The senator said his bill is not an attack on transgender people, but is about fairness for women athletes.

“This transgender issue, listen, I’m not against it,” he said. “Whatever you want to be in our country, you be that, but that doesn’t give you the opportunity to destroy other people’s lives, and that’s what’s happening through transgender biological boys participating in girls sports, and it’s going to continue to tear it down. And the Biden administration is adamant on taking away the gender of women, and we’re going to continue to fight it up here because it’s unsafe and it’s wrong what they’re trying to do.”

Tuberville believes if the issue is not addressed now it will become an even bigger problem in the future.

“It would be like saying ‘ok, we’re going to let NFL football players play in a junior high football league,'” he said. “I mean that’s basically what you’re doing here and it’s not fair. It’s not fair to the women and girls in this country that want the opportunity to play sports and to learn from that situation, but they also want, if you’re going to participate, they want the opportunity to have success. And now that we’ve got biological boys playing women’s sports, it’s going to continue to grow and grow and grow.”

He reiterated Biden’s plan would fundamentally ruin sports as we know it in this country.

“It’s going to be a total takeover of these kids who are transitioning, or say they’re transitioning to women, it’s going to be a total takeover of boys in women’s sports, and we can’t allow that to happen,” he said. “We have to allow young girls and women to be able to compete.”

Yaffee is a contributing writer to Yellowhammer News and hosts “The Yaffee Program” weekdays 9-11 a.m. on WVNN. You can follow him on Twitter @Yaffee

MONTGOMERY — The Alabama Senate Committee on Education Policy on Wednesday morning voted 9-0 to approve a bill that would prohibit biological males from competing in public school female sports, and vice versa.

HB 391, sponsored by Rep. Scott Stadthagen (R-Hartselle), would limit student athletes to competitions that align with the gender listed on their birth certificate.

“God doesn’t make mistakes,” the bill sponsor remarked. He summarized that HB 391 “protects female athletes … from allowing males to come in and compete against them.”

“It’s not on a fair and level playing field (for that to happen), and that’s what this bill is about,” Stadthagen told the committee.
(more…)

The ZeroZero Foundation on Monday announced that it will launch this week, serving the Birmingham area.

Founded last year to address perceived gaps in the sports industry, the ZeroZero Foundation will provide children with sports-related enrichment and educational opportunities through several key programs and events.

A release outlined that the ZeroZero Foundation was founded by Caleb Schmidt, an executive at Magic City marketing agency Knight Eady, after seeing three critical areas lacking in the sports industry: access, inspiration and aspiration.

The organization reportedly aims to broaden children’s perspectives and identify their passions to help them achieve a career path in sports, if they so desire. The foundation’s mission is to leverage the diverse opportunities of sports to enrich the lives of others — one child, one family and one community at a time. (more…)

In an op-ed published in the Washington Examiner on Thursday, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) denounced the executive order issued last week by President Joe Biden allowing biological males to compete in female sports.

The order allows transgender females — biological males who identify as females — to utilize female restrooms and locker rooms in K-12 schools across America, as well as competing in female sports. Title IX prohibits discrimination based on sex in any federally funded educational program or activity, and Biden is threatening to withhold funding from any jurisdiction that does not comply with his order.

Tuberville believes that this action by Biden flies in the face of Title IX’s original purpose.

“In my four decades of coaching young athletes, there has been no greater equalizer for women’s and girls’ sports than Title IX. Unfortunately, President Biden’s recent executive order will set back women’s sports by half a century,” the freshman senator wrote. (more…)

Yellowhammer Multimedia on Thursday announced that 24-time Emmy Award winning television anchor Rick Karle will be a special sports contributor to Yellowhammer News for the remainder of the 2019 college football season.

Many Alabamians will recognize Karle as the iconic sports director at WBRC FOX6 from 1989 to December 2018.

Yellowhammer is excited to bring Karle back in front of audiences across our state this fall.

He will publish multiple regular pieces of sports content that will be viewable on YellowhammerNews.com. This will include exclusive analysis, news reporting and marque interviews, told through video and written articles. Karle will not just bring you the latest on-the-field insight, but he will help give you a window into our favorite athletic personalities outside the game itself. (more…)

It’s finally here, sports fans: the last weekend without either college football or NFL games until February.

The NFL Preseason kicked off with the annual Hall of Fame Game on Thursday in Canton, OH, as the Baltimore Ravens defeated the Chicago Bears 17-16.

Now, we have one more dormant weekend to get through before Saturday and Sunday games get underway. (more…)

Jim Cavale was sitting in the audience at a tech conference in Birmingham, Ala., in 2016. At the time, he was president of a successful fitness company in the city that had grown into a national brand, but his mind was beginning to think about new challenges.

That inaugural Sloss Tech conference, in 2016, was a game-changer for Cavale. As he listened to keynote speaker Gary Vaynerchuk, the wheels began to turn.

“I was very comfortable and very passionate about what I was doing at Iron Tribe Fitness,” Cavale recalls. “Gary’s talk stirred a lot of passions that are embedded inside of me. He talked about the importance of personal brand and social media and how important it is in terms of athletes. He talked about leveraging the platforms to accomplish your goals in business and in life.

“He talked about things that led to a conversation between him and me afterward, that really kept stirring in me after the event was over. Less than two months after that event, I ended up deciding that it was a good time to sell out to my partners and I found myself in New York in Gary’s office telling him the story of the impact his talk had on me. I knew that I was going to build something new in this sports/social media realm. I didn’t know what it would be, whether it was going to be consulting and services or technology-based.”

That idea becameInfluencer (INFLCR), which launched in late 2017 and now works with some of the biggest brands in college sports and politics. The INFLCR software allowing clients to store, distribute and track their digital assets — photos, videos, story links, GIFs and more — through a cloud-based INFLCR account as they flow through the social accounts of their brand ambassadors. (more…)

There has been so much written about “what women really mean when they say something,” the topic should have its own wing in the Library of Congress. For men it’s much simpler. When your dad says he doesn’t want a gift for Father’s Day, it usually means either a.) he really wants something, or b.) your previous gifts to him have been so awful, he doesn’t want another ugly necktie.
It’s time to think classy, be a hero to dad and not break your bank account in the process. Forget the ties and the cheap cologne. Here are the best categories for gifts that he will brag out to his buds.

Golf

It’s a fact: men of a certain age tend to like golf. Bent Brook Golf Course in Birmingham is a 27-hole course designed for play that is challenging enough for advanced players while still being enjoyable for players with higher handicaps. Book dad a tee time online and give him a relaxing day chasing a little white ball.

If he just likes practicing his swing, Top Golf Birmingham has more than 100 climate-controlled hitting bays, a full-service restaurant and bars and a rooftop terrace with a fire pit. Their Father’s Day package will make him feel like a VIP.

Gun and Tactical

It’s also a fact that a lot of dads like to shoot. Sheepdog Firearms in Trussville is a unique gun store, shooting range and training facility. In addition to its 4,000 square feet retail area, Sheepdog has a state-of-the-art target retrieval system for an experience that will challenge even the most advanced target shooters.

From archery to firearms, Hoover Tactical Firearms aims to be your one-stop-shop when it comes to weapons. Check out their largest indoor range in the state, shop, archery range and clothing and accessories.

Food

Dads don’t like to eat—said no dad ever. Saw’s BBQ has three locations in the Birmingham area and was recently proclaimed by Men’s Journal as the “Best Barbecue in America.”

Full Moon Bar-B-Que has trademarked itself as the “Best Little Pork House in Alabama” and cooks its meat low and slow over a hickory wood-fired pit. Doesn’t that just make your mouth water?

Time Pieces

A good watch makes the man. In addition to battery replacements and precision repairs, Barton-Clay in Mountain Brook has stylish time pieces that would look great on your old man. Their staff of highly skilled jewelers can accommodate every request.

For more than 180 years Bromberg’s has provided fine jewelry and giftware options for the most discerning customers in Birmingham. They have watches of all kinds, and they all look great.

Cigars

If dad is partial to stogies, The Humidor Room offers a full bar, a wide variety of fine cigars and tobacco products from around the world. A great place to relax with a drink and a smoke.

Vitola Fine Cigars is a family owned and operated tobacconist located in Mountain Brook Village. They specialize in premium cigars, pipes and a great atmosphere. Drop by and smoke a cigar in their lounge filled with leather chairs, big screen TVs and great conversation.

Grill Master

What dad doesn’t like to man the grill? Alabama Gaslight & Grill in Homewood is a family-owned and operated specialty hearth, grill and gas lantern retail outlet. All of their products are made in the USA, and any of them would make a super-cool VIP gift.

ABSCO Fireplace & Patio has two locations around Birmingham is the source for the finest grills from Big Green Egg and Firemagic and a huge selection of fireplace hearths and accessories. They are also a one-stop source for outdoor fireplaces and firepits.

Fitness/Workout Warrior

If dad finds his happy place by working out, Highpoint Climbing and Fitness brings world class climbing to Alabama with 25,000 square feet of indoor climbing surface featuring walls up to 52+ feet tall. They also offer a Kid Zone, Bouldering Room, Weight and Aerobic Rooms, and yoga classes.

Want to lift some iron in The Iron City? Iron Tribe Fitness blends one-on-one coaching with group fitness. Membership at every ITF gym is strictly limited to 300 athletes. They offer great personal coaching and a positive environment where dad can work out in a group of his peers.

Speed

What dad doesn’t feel the need for speed? Autobahn Indoor Speedway provides a premier indoor go-kart racing experience. They deliver the freedom and the exhilaration of driving a high performance vehicle in a safe, comfortable and fun environment.

Is your dad is a NASCAR fan, he knows all about Talladega Superspeedway. Did you know you can buy him a package to get behind the wheel at the legendary raceway? The gift of a day at their NASCAR Racing Experience or Richard Petty Driving Experience is a racing fan’s dream come true.

Sports

If dad is more into spectator sports, the Birmingham Barons are the AA affiliate of the Chicago White Sox and offer great baseball with a small town minor league atmosphere. Their game on Father’s Day will allow you to “Play Catch with Dad” in the outfield before the game starts.

The Birmingham Legion will be bringing pro soccer to the area and will launch their inaugural season next year. Get in on the ground floor and get dad tickets now.

Outdoorsman

What to get the outdoorsman who has everything? A gift card from Mark’s Outdoors would be the smart move. They have everything he could want for hunting, fishing, archery and much more.

Lake Purdy is a fisherman’s paradise. Rent a fishing boat. Get all the bait you need. Haul in big fish. A day well spent.

Oak Mountain State Park is Alabama’s largest state park with 9,940 acres. Enjoy mountain biking, hiking, water sports, cable skiing, beach, horseback riding and much more.

There has been so much written about “what women really mean when they say something,” the topic should have its own wing in the Library of Congress. For men it’s much simpler. When your dad says he doesn’t want a gift for Father’s Day, it usually means either a.) he really wants something, or b.) your previous gifts to him have been so awful, he doesn’t want another ugly necktie.
It’s time to think classy, be a hero to dad and not break your bank account in the process. Forget the ties and the cheap cologne. Here are the best categories for gifts that he will brag out to his buds.

Golf

It’s a fact: men of a certain age tend to like golf. Bent Brook Golf Course in Birmingham is a 27-hole course designed for play that is challenging enough for advanced players while still being enjoyable for players with higher handicaps. Book dad a tee time online and give him a relaxing day chasing a little white ball.

If he just likes practicing his swing, Top Golf Birmingham has more than 100 climate-controlled hitting bays, a full-service restaurant and bars and a rooftop terrace with a fire pit. Their Father’s Day package will make him feel like a VIP.

Gun and Tactical

It’s also a fact that a lot of dads like to shoot. Sheepdog Firearms in Trussville is a unique gun store, shooting range and training facility. In addition to its 4,000 square feet retail area, Sheepdog has a state-of-the-art target retrieval system for an experience that will challenge even the most advanced target shooters.

From archery to firearms, Hoover Tactical Firearms aims to be your one-stop-shop when it comes to weapons. Check out their largest indoor range in the state, shop, archery range and clothing and accessories.

Food
(more…)

There has been so much written about “what women really mean when they say something,” the topic should have its own wing in the Library of Congress. For men it’s much simpler. When your dad says he doesn’t want a gift for Father’s Day, it usually means either a.) he really wants something, or b.) your previous gifts to him have been so awful, he doesn’t want another ugly necktie.
It’s time to think classy, be a hero to dad and not break your bank account in the process. Forget the ties and the cheap cologne. Here are the best categories for gifts that he will brag out to his buds.

Golf

It’s a fact: men of a certain age tend to like golf. Bent Brook Golf Course in Birmingham is a 27-hole course designed for play that is challenging enough for advanced players while still being enjoyable for players with higher handicaps. Book dad a tee time online and give him a relaxing day chasing a little white ball.

If he just likes practicing his swing, Top Golf Birmingham has more than 100 climate-controlled hitting bays, a full-service restaurant and bars and a rooftop terrace with a fire pit. Their Father’s Day package will make him feel like a VIP.

Gun and Tactical

It’s also a fact that a lot of dads like to shoot. Sheepdog Firearms in Trussville is a unique gun store, shooting range and training facility. In addition to its 4,000 square feet retail area, Sheepdog has a state-of-the-art target retrieval system for an experience that will challenge even the most advanced target shooters.

From archery to firearms, Hoover Tactical Firearms aims to be your one-stop-shop when it comes to weapons. Check out their largest indoor range in the state, shop, archery range and clothing and accessories.

Food
(more…)

There has been so much written about “what women really mean when they say something,” the topic should have its own wing in the Library of Congress. For men it’s much simpler. When your dad says he doesn’t want a gift for Father’s Day, it usually means either a.) he really wants something, or b.) your previous gifts to him have been so awful, he doesn’t want another ugly necktie.
It’s time to think classy, be a hero to dad and not break your bank account in the process. Forget the ties and the cheap cologne. Here are the best categories for gifts that he will brag out to his buds.

Golf

It’s a fact: men of a certain age tend to like golf. Bent Brook Golf Course in Birmingham is a 27-hole course designed for play that is challenging enough for advanced players while still being enjoyable for players with higher handicaps. Book dad a tee time online and give him a relaxing day chasing a little white ball.

If he just likes practicing his swing, Top Golf Birmingham has more than 100 climate-controlled hitting bays, a full-service restaurant and bars and a rooftop terrace with a fire pit. Their Father’s Day package will make him feel like a VIP.

Gun and Tactical

It’s also a fact that a lot of dads like to shoot. Sheepdog Firearms in Trussville is a unique gun store, shooting range and training facility. In addition to its 4,000 square feet retail area, Sheepdog has a state-of-the-art target retrieval system for an experience that will challenge even the most advanced target shooters.

From archery to firearms, Hoover Tactical Firearms aims to be your one-stop-shop when it comes to weapons. Check out their largest indoor range in the state, shop, archery range and clothing and accessories.

Food

Dads don’t like to eat—said no dad ever. Saw’s BBQ has three locations in the Birmingham area and was recently proclaimed by Men’s Journal as the “Best Barbecue in America.”

Full Moon Bar-B-Que has trademarked itself as the “Best Little Pork House in Alabama” and cooks its meat low and slow over a hickory wood-fired pit. Doesn’t that just make your mouth water?

Time Pieces

A good watch makes the man. In addition to battery replacements and precision repairs, Barton-Clay in Mountain Brook has stylish time pieces that would look great on your old man. Their staff of highly skilled jewelers can accommodate every request.

For more than 180 years Bromberg’s has provided fine jewelry and giftware options for the most discerning customers in Birmingham. They have watches of all kinds, and they all look great.

Cigars

If dad is partial to stogies, The Humidor Room offers a full bar, a wide variety of fine cigars and tobacco products from around the world. A great place to relax with a drink and a smoke.

Vitola Fine Cigars is a family owned and operated tobacconist located in Mountain Brook Village. They specialize in premium cigars, pipes and a great atmosphere. Drop by and smoke a cigar in their lounge filled with leather chairs, big screen TVs and great conversation.

Grill Master

What dad doesn’t like to man the grill? Alabama Gaslight & Grill in Homewood is a family-owned and operated specialty hearth, grill and gas lantern retail outlet. All of their products are made in the USA, and any of them would make a super-cool VIP gift.

ABSCO Fireplace & Patio has two locations around Birmingham is the source for the finest grills from Big Green Egg and Firemagic and a huge selection of fireplace hearths and accessories. They are also a one-stop source for outdoor fireplaces and firepits.

Fitness/Workout Warrior

If dad finds his happy place by working out, Highpoint Climbing and Fitness brings world class climbing to Alabama with 25,000 square feet of indoor climbing surface featuring walls up to 52+ feet tall. They also offer a Kid Zone, Bouldering Room, Weight and Aerobic Rooms, and yoga classes.

Want to lift some iron in The Iron City? Iron Tribe Fitness blends one-on-one coaching with group fitness. Membership at every ITF gym is strictly limited to 300 athletes. They offer great personal coaching and a positive environment where dad can work out in a group of his peers.

Speed

What dad doesn’t feel the need for speed? Autobahn Indoor Speedway provides a premier indoor go-kart racing experience. They deliver the freedom and the exhilaration of driving a high performance vehicle in a safe, comfortable and fun environment.

Is your dad is a NASCAR fan, he knows all about Talladega Superspeedway. Did you know you can buy him a package to get behind the wheel at the legendary raceway? The gift of a day at their NASCAR Racing Experience or Richard Petty Driving Experience is a racing fan’s dream come true.

Sports

If dad is more into spectator sports, the Birmingham Barons are the AA affiliate of the Chicago White Sox and offer great baseball with a small town minor league atmosphere. Their game on Father’s Day will allow you to “Play Catch with Dad” in the outfield before the game starts.

The Birmingham Legion will be bringing pro soccer to the area and will launch their inaugural season next year. Get in on the ground floor and get dad tickets now.

Outdoorsman

What to get the outdoorsman who has everything? A gift card from Mark’s Outdoors would be the smart move. They have everything he could want for hunting, fishing, archery and much more.

Lake Purdy is a fisherman’s paradise. Rent a fishing boat. Get all the bait you need. Haul in big fish. A day well spent.

Oak Mountain State Park is Alabama’s largest state park with 9,940 acres. Enjoy mountain biking, hiking, water sports, cable skiing, beach, horseback riding and much more.

There has been so much written about “what women really mean when they say something,” the topic should have its own wing in the Library of Congress. For men it’s much simpler. When your dad says he doesn’t want a gift for Father’s Day, it usually means either a.) he really wants something, or b.) your previous gifts to him have been so awful, he doesn’t want another ugly necktie.
It’s time to think classy, be a hero to dad and not break your bank account in the process. Forget the ties and the cheap cologne. Here are the best categories for gifts that he will brag about to his buds.

Golf

It’s a fact: men of a certain age tend to like golf. Bent Brook Golf Course in Birmingham is a 27-hole course designed for play that is challenging enough for advanced players while still being enjoyable for players with higher handicaps. Book dad a tee time online and give him a relaxing day chasing a little white ball.

If he just likes practicing his swing, Top Golf Birmingham has more than 100 climate-controlled hitting bays, a full-service restaurant and bars and a rooftop terrace with a fire pit. Their Father’s Day package will make him feel like a VIP.

Gun and Tactical

It’s also a fact that a lot of dads like to shoot. Sheepdog Firearms in Trussville is a unique gun store, shooting range and training facility. In addition to its 4,000 square feet retail area, Sheepdog has a state-of-the-art target retrieval system for an experience that will challenge even the most advanced target shooters.

From archery to firearms, Hoover Tactical Firearms aims to be your one-stop-shop when it comes to weapons. Check out their largest indoor range in the state, shop, archery range and clothing and accessories.

Food
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Dear Christian sports fan, coaches are people too.

It seems like something that should not have to be said, but we live in an era that tends to dehumanize coaches. The dehumanization goes in two opposing directions. On the one hand, coaches are often idolized to the point of being deified. And on the other hand, coaches are spoken about in humiliating ways as if they are not actual human beings who are created in the image of God.

Most of the coaches I know are amazingly hard workers and very passionate about their job and the players they coach. In fact, some of the most influential people in my life have been coaches. I recall things they taught me almost every single day of my life and am abundantly thankful for the investment they made in my life.

No matter how much we love sports or our favorite team, we must always remember that coaches are human beings, image bearers, people with families. How many of us hold ourselves as accountable in our vocations to producing tangible results like we demand from the coach of our favorite team? If not, why not? Scripture commands us, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men” (Col 3:23).

SOCIAL MEDIA SLAMS

In what other profession would Christians take to social media and call for someone to be fired apart from any scandalous or immoral action? When else do Christians publicly cheer and celebrate somebody losing their job because after all, they were not getting it done? One good rule of thumb for Christians is that you should not say anything about a coach—in person or online—that you would not say if he was in your presence.

Many people justify this dehumanization of high-profile college and professional coaches by appealing to how much money they make. I can understand that argument among people in general, but I cannot understand it among anyone who professes to be a follower of the Lord Jesus Christ. Even if someone thinks wrongly, that because of a high salary and big payout it just doesn’t matter what you say about a coach, he should at least remember that it is usually only the head coach and a few key assistants that make that huge salary and have that massive buyout. Countless people are working in that organization because of the head coach and will also be gone when that coach is fired.

Like every other profession, there are certainly some coaches that are better and more gifted than others. But like every other profession, as well, success in coaching is part ability, but also a matter of providence, the existing culture, staff, and countless other factors that fans do not know about. Bill Belichick’s record as the head coach of the Cleveland Browns was 36-44, and he was fired. Belichick is now 211-73 with the New England Patriots and arguably, the greatest NFL coach of all time. Did Belichick become a completely different coach in New England or was it also a matter of landing in the right place at the right time?

LESSON FROM SPURGEON

I remember reading somewhere that the great English Baptist preacher Charles Haddon Spurgeon was asked what it felt like to be the greatest preacher in England. It was reported that he responded, “If I ever meet him, I will ask him.” Why did the questioner ask him about being the greatest preacher in England? Because his church, the Metropolitan Tabernacle, was the largest church around. Spurgeon purportedly added, “The greatest preacher in England is probably preaching in some little hamlet somewhere to a handful of people.” Spurgeon was undoubtedly a gifted preacher, but he also knew that the reason he was allowed to reach and pastor so many people was not merely his giftedness but rather the gracious providence of God.

Christian sports fan, there are no Savior coaches, and most coaches are not lazy, good-for-nothings either. Coaches are people created in the image of God attempting to do a particular job. Most coaches know that they signed up for a high-pressure position that will be judged on results, and they can live with that fact. But there is no reason for Christians to contribute to the vigilante-style dehumanization of coaches as we talk about them and our favorite teams.

Coaches will fail, and coaches will succeed, but Christian fans ought to be those who above all else, know that coaches are fellow image bearers. Of course, sometimes a coach needs to be fired. There’s nothing wrong with stating that fact in a respectful way if that is your opinion, but as a Christian, will you also pray for him or her, their family, and all the other families and players affected by the coach’s dismissal? Let’s not join the crowd in dehumanizing coaches. After all, they are people just like us.

(By David Prince, courtesy ERLC)

The University of Alabama typically makes sports news for its huge linemen, towering receivers, and thundering running backs. However, one small Alabama student has taken the internet by storm.

Isabella Donahue, a University of Alabama cheerleader, posted a picture of her and Rachel Kramer, a volleyball player from Florida, that has the entire internet laughing.

Donahue originally posted the picture with the caption “If you’re wondering how big a 2 foot distance is.” Many were startled at how high Kramer towered over her. According to campusnews.net, Donahue is 4 feet 8 inches tall, while Kramer is 6 feet 8 inches.

If you're wondering how big a 2 foot difference is pic.twitter.com/X2vY5e9d4q

— Isabella (@idonahuee) October 21, 2017

The post immediately went viral, as it was spread by the SEC and national media outlets such as NBCSN, SB Nation, and SEC Network. It even prompted others to share their lopsided height pictures as well.

It just goes to show, even viral pictures can come in small packages.

It doesn’t launch people into space. It doesn’t involve serious problems and serious solutions.

But in the high-tech world of Huntsville, it turns out fun and games are also a major industry.

Sports tourism in the City of Huntsville is a $10 million annual industry, according to Ralph Stone, executive director of the Huntsville Sports Commission. That’s the economic impact of visitor spending for sports events. The National Association of Sports Commission estimates spending of $895 per athlete per event, so imagine the revenue generated from sales and lodging taxes for 50-60 events per year.

“Sports are a big business for us,” says Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle. “Plus, it’s just downright fun, whether it’s a 10K race or a state soccer tournament or kids playing baseball.”

Time magazine recently reported that the youth sports industry has become a $15.3 billion annual business. Huntsville has been active in that industry through three different entities: the Huntsville Sports Commission, a full-service entity that is funded by the City that attracts sporting events, often administers them and aids event organizers; the Huntsville-Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau, which works on a broader spectrum of tourism but devotes generous resources toward sports; and the Huntsville Parks & Recreation Department, which primarily serves as host and provider of facilities.

All can be summed up within the mission statement offered by Stone: “To identify, recruit and host sporting events for the purpose of economic impact to our community.”

The Sports Commission has hosted the Alabama High School Athletic Association state soccer championships since 2002 and the AHSAA state wrestling tournament since 2007. It will again welcome the University of Alabama for regular-season basketball game in December.

Facilities are important, and Huntsville is keeping pace – or leading the race. Says Stone, “In order to stay in the game, we have to match up.”

The newest facility is the $22.4 million Huntsville Aquatics Center. It recently held the Southeastern Long Course championships, which provided more than a $1 million boost to the economy, and those in the local swim community are optimistic that it will host national-level events in the future.

New venues are in the works, including 11 soccer/lacrosse fields and a multi-purpose athletic mecca for cyclists, runners and walkers, including competitive venues, on the site of a former municipal golf course.

It is essential to think beyond what those in the business call “the stick-and-ball sports.” Softball tournaments are well and good. But many times, non-traditional sports are looking for homes for their events, and they can have an equal economic impact.

Think Quidditch is just a fantasy sport from Harry Potter movies? It’s now a popular “real” game, and it holds regional (Tuscaloosa is hosting one in February) and national competitions. Huntsville has had great success hosting fishing tournaments and many outdoor-related events. Other competitions from Ultimate Frisbee to shuffleboard to juggling to archery have been on the radar.

Don Dukemineer of the Convention and Visitors Bureau is a member of the Board of Directors for the National Association of Sports Commissions. He frequently travels to conventions and meetings, spreading the gospel of Huntsville. Now and again, he’ll find someone who hasn’t heard of Huntsville, “and I’ll say come check it out. Maybe do a tournament or an event. Once they come here and see all we have to offer, they’ll say, ‘When can I sign on the dotted line?’”

HOOVER, Ala. — Auburn Tigers Head Football Coach Gus Malzahn and Alabama Head Coach Nick Saban will serve alongside two other SEC coaches and two athletic directors on a committee that will help the conference deal with numerous recruiting issues. Specifically, they will deal with the fallout of the NCAA’s latest rule changes.

“Really it’s saying that we have concerns about the new recruiting package that was adopted and you’ve probably read and heard of those concerns by our football coaches,” SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey said at SEC Media Days this week.

Other committee members include Missouri coach Barry Odom, Vanderbilt coach Derek Mason, Florida AD Scott Stricklin, and Arkansas AD Jeff Long. Some of the NCAA rule changes the committee will address include new dates for national signing day, heightened summer camp regulations, and the restrictions on schools hiring “people close to a prospective student-athlete” for two years before and after that student’s enrollment at the school.

The latter rule change has struck coaches as unfair to future colleagues working to make it into the college ranks. “It’s a death sentence to any high school coach wanting to coach college (football),” Malzahn told the Montgomery Advertiser. “It’s not fair.”

Saban has been equally critical of the new rules and stated that they make it tough on student athletes who typically relied on having coaches help them out with summer camps. He also feels that NCAA is working to “close loopholes” that have helped his teams over the years.

Both Alabama and Auburn have big matchups at the beginning of the season. The Crimson Tide takes on Florida State in Atlanta in the opening weekend’s marquee matchup, while Auburn takes on reigning national champion Clemson in week two.

HELENA, Ala. — After the best season in school history, the Helena Huskies finished their latest campaign as the number one baseball team in the country, according to MaxPreps computer rankings. Helena went 38-6 this year and defeated the Cullman Bearcats in May to win their first 6A state championship.

“Everybody at the beginning of the year set a goal. Nobody talked about that end goal. But in my heart, [winning the state championship] that was my goal,” Helena’s Nash Adam’s told Al.com after the championship victory. “I wouldn’t say it out loud because baseball is a is superstitious game. Didn’t want to jinx anything. But when we got here, I knew exactly what was going to happen. ”

MaxPreps’ computer ranking system relies solely on statistics and does not account for season history, school size, or polls. A team’s ranking is calculated by an algorithm that tracks game results stored in the MaxPreps database. In addition to the mere win-loss record of a team, the system takes into account the quality of wins and strength of schedule.

The MaxPreps Xcellent 25 is the company’s human ranking compiled from a poll of writers. Helena finished fifth overall in that metric.

Cullman, who lost to Helena in the 6A final, still finished seventh in the MaxPreps final computer ranking. The only other Alabama team to finish in the final top 25 was the 7A state champion Hoover Buccanneers, who finished seventeenth.

HOOVER, Ala. — The city of Hoover formally opened its brand new Finley Center last week that officials hope will bring in more business from across the region. Named after legendary Berry High School Football Coach Bob Finley, the 155,000 square-foot facility completes phase one of the Hoover Metropolitan Complex project, which already contains the Metropolitan Stadium and an RV Park.

“As we celebrate our fiftieth year as a city, it is timely that we are opening this new facility today,” Hoover Mayor Frank Brocato said last week. “The Finley Center will bring competitive tournaments; great sporting traditions, non-profit fundraisers, business gatherings and more to Hoover. The impact will not only benefit our community, but the state of Alabama.”

Prior to its official grand opening, the Finley Center was already put to use as the host of SEC Baseball FanFest. Hoover hosts the SEC Baseball Tournament next door at its Metropolitan Stadium, and the multiuse facility was pitched to the SEC as a reason the tournament should stay in the city.

The Finley Center includes a walking track, performance center, food court, flexible meeting space, and clip ‘n climb attraction. Its 83,000 square foot clear-span space can be used to accommodate 11 regulation-size basketball courts, 17 regulation-size volleyball courts, trade shows with 300 booths, 2,400-seat banquets, or theatre-style seating for 5,000. Additionally, its drop down netting allows for the facility to be used for multiple events at once.

Outdoor facilities that will be included in phase two expansion are five NCAA regulation-size soccer/football/lacrosse fields, five NCAA regulation-size baseball/softball fields, 16 tennis courts with pro shop, a playground, a splash pad, and a large event lawn.

According to estimates from the Greater Birmingham Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Finley Center is expected to bring an economic impact between $27 million and $33 million to Hoover. Those who helped build the facility believe its quality will help attract people to the city.

“This facility is on the leading edge of that trend and will have a significant economic impact on the City of Hoover.” said Brasfield & Gorrie Senior Project Manager Stephen Franklin.