Jeff Hart

Seven-time defending state champion Buford got its quest for a eighth straight title off to a solid start with a sweep of Pickens in the first round of the Class AAAA playoffs.

The East Hall girls volleyball team held off Ringgold in a tough five-set match Wednesday to advance to the second round of the Class AAA state playoffs at home.

North Hall advanced to the second round of the Class AAAA girls state volleyball playoffs Wednesday.

Other than East Hall and North Hall, Buford was the only other area volleyball team to advance Wednesday in the first round of the state playoffs.

With more dominant defense, an opportunistic offense that plated two runs in the first inning and a bullpen that shut down the Baltimore Orioles once again, Greg Holland and the Kansas City Royals wrapped up a sweep of the AL Championship Series with a 2-1 victory on Wednesday.

Finishing strong is the ultimate goal for any football player. It shows you're better conditioned and mentally tougher than your opponent. For the Falcons, it's been an elusive target.

While the Braves' search for a new general manager continues, a new management team already is taking shape.

Most anyone that follows high school football in northeast Georgia figured the newly-realigned Region 7-AAA -- the one without Buford, North Hall, or White County -- would be up for grabs the entire season.

The girls state softball playoffs are ready to begin and several local and area teams are ready to find out if they have enough to make it to Columbus in 2014.

Former Habersham Central strandout Kevin Ellison ran for two touchdowns and threw for another in Georgia Southern's 47-24 victory over winless Idaho on Saturday night.