In a game that lived up to the fierce reputation of Alabama high school football, the Thompson Warriors etched their names deeper into the record books, defeating the Spain Park Jaguars to claim their third consecutive Alabama 7-on-7 Championship title. What began as a humid summer morning in Hoover, Alabama, culminated in a late-afternoon spectacle that showcased not only Thompson’s polished talent but also their unwavering will to win.
A Dynasty Cemented
This 2025 title marks the continuation of a remarkable dynasty under head coach Mark Freeman. With seven-on-seven football serving as a critical off-season showcase for skill-position players, Thompson’s consistent dominance has underscored the depth, discipline, and preparation that defines its program.
“Every year is different, but the standard stays the same,” Freeman said in his postgame remarks. “We play fast, we play smart, and we play for each other. This group just kept rising to the moment.”
Thompson’s path to the championship was anything but easy. Throughout the two-day tournament, they faced a gauntlet of top-tier programs from across the state and even some elite out-of-state competition. Yet, in every matchup, they showcased poise under pressure and elite execution — culminating in their 28–21 win over Spain Park in the final.
The Championship Showdown
The final game was a rematch of a tense pool-play contest that saw Spain Park push Thompson to the brink. However, in the title game, Thompson came out with a different energy — equal parts intensity and calm confidence.
Junior quarterback Sawyer Johnson, a rising name in Alabama recruiting circles, led the charge for the Warriors. Johnson finished the game with four touchdown passes, no interceptions, and an array of pinpoint throws that kept Spain Park’s defensive backs guessing. His chemistry with wide receivers Jayden “Jet” Collins and Tyriq Henderson was electric, with Collins pulling in two scores and Henderson making several acrobatic third-down conversions that helped sustain drives.
On the defensive side, senior cornerback Kameron Hall made arguably the play of the tournament — a leaping interception in the final minutes that sealed the victory and ignited celebration on the Warriors’ sideline.
“Coach told us all week: the team that makes the one big play at the end is the one that wins it,” said Hall. “When I saw the ball hang up, I just had to go get it. I wasn’t gonna let this slip away.”
Spain Park was led valiantly by junior QB Luke Carmichael, who threw for three touchdowns and nearly orchestrated a late comeback. Wideout Bryce Sheffield, one of the fastest players on the field all day, made big plays in space, but ultimately Thompson’s defensive depth and pressure proved too much.
A Summer Crown with Autumn Implications
Seven-on-seven football may lack the pads and grit of fall competition, but its impact on fall preparation is undeniable. Timing, communication, and skill development are forged in these summer reps — and no one is benefiting more than Thompson.
What separates Thompson from the field is not just their talent, but the system in which they operate. Offensive coordinator Tony Stillman, known for his innovative passing schemes, has built a model around precision and tempo. The team ran an up-tempo offense throughout the tournament, often snapping the ball within five seconds of setting.
“It’s about rhythm and recognition,” Stillman said. “Sawyer [Johnson] has really grown into this role. He sees the whole field now, and our receivers trust him to put the ball where it needs to be.”
Defensively, coordinator Jake Wallace rotated through a deep group of linebackers and defensive backs, keeping legs fresh and coverage tight. Their 2-4-1 alignment (a common 7-on-7 base) confused opposing QBs with disguised looks and aggressive break-on-ball instincts.
Player Development and Recruiting Stock
Perhaps the biggest stage for recruiting buzz during summer, the Alabama 7-on-7 Championship attracted college scouts from across the Southeast. Multiple Thompson players boosted their stock in major ways.
Sawyer Johnson was already on the radar of several Group of Five programs, but his performance this week may have earned him Power Five looks. His arm strength, poise, and footwork impressed scouts from Auburn, Ole Miss, and Memphis.
Wide receiver Jayden Collins, meanwhile, continues to look like one of the state’s most dynamic uncommitted players. Clocked at 4.41 in the 40 earlier this month, Collins’ combination of speed, route precision, and catch radius drew rave reviews.
“He’s a Power Five receiver, no doubt,” one SEC scout commented. “He plays bigger than his size and never takes a snap off.”
On defense, Kameron Hall — already holding offers from Troy and UAB — saw his stock rise with his championship-sealing interception and sticky man coverage all tournament.
Spain Park’s Carmichael also saw his recruiting profile elevate. Known primarily as a baseball prospect, he showed dual-sport potential and great anticipation under pressure, throwing just one interception in the entire tournament.
Championship Mindset and Culture
Winning three straight 7-on-7 state championships is more than a feat of skill — it’s a reflection of program culture. Thompson’s offseason regiment, attention to detail, and commitment to “playing championship football” year-round are what separates them.
Coach Freeman credits the leadership of his seniors — including vocal linebacker Malik Carson and receiver Tyriq Henderson — for setting the tone.
“These guys don’t want to leave anything on the table,” Freeman said. “They train like champions, and that’s why they win like champions.”
Thompson’s strength and conditioning coach, Chris Bagley, noted the offseason buy-in was the best he’s seen in his time with the program.
“You get out of summer what you put into it,” Bagley said. “And these boys put in work every single day.”
The Road Ahead: Fall Football and Bigger Goals
While the 7-on-7 crown is a celebrated achievement, the Warriors’ eyes are firmly fixed on the bigger prize: a return to the AHSAA Class 7A State Championship game this fall.
They came up short in the semifinals last December after an incredible run that saw them win four state titles between 2019–2022. Now, with a veteran quarterback, a reloaded receiver room, and a defense hungry for redemption, the Warriors are among the favorites again.
“We’ve got unfinished business,” said linebacker Malik Carson. “7-on-7 is fun, but come August, we put the pads on and go to work. We want that blue map again.”
The schedule will not be easy. Thompson opens the season with a nationally televised game against Buford (GA) — a perennial power stacked with Division I recruits. Other key dates include region battles with Hoover, Vestavia Hills, and a potential showdown with Central-Phenix City in the playoffs.
But if the 7-on-7 tournament is any indication, the Thompson Warriors are not backing down from any challenge.
Spain Park’s Growth Underway
Though Spain Park fell just short in the final, the Jaguars showed they are ready to contend in the upcoming season. Head coach Sean Travis has quietly built a contender with rising talent and strong player buy-in.
Carmichael, Sheffield, and tight end Trent Massey form a dangerous offensive trio, while the defense, led by safety Eli Baker, showed strong tackling and coverage skills even in a touch-based format.
“We’ve got work to do, but I’m proud of this group,” Travis said. “They competed all week, and we’re going to take this experience into the fall.”
The 2025 Alabama 7-on-7 Championship was more than just a summer tournament — it was a statement. A showcase. A proving ground for emerging talent and elite preparation. And at the top of that summit stood Thompson once again — not just winners, but champions of culture, execution, and hunger.
As the sun set over Hoover Metropolitan Complex, and the Warriors hoisted their third straight 7-on-7 trophy, it was clear: the road to Alabama high school football greatness still runs through Thompson.
And come fall, the pads will pop, the lights will shine, and the rest of the state will try to answer one question — who, if anyone, can stop the Warriors?
