Hardin-Jefferson Hawks are tough in 7-on-7 tournament

Hawks’ Javion Johnson picks off a Benbrook pass in the end zone.
Dylan Busby | The Silsbee Bee
COLLEGE STATION - The Hardin-Jefferson Hawks played in the State 7-on-7 Tournament at Veterans Park and Athletic Complex in College Station last weekend. The Hawks secured a qualifying spot after a strong tournament performance on June 18. Hosted By “Dave Campbell’s Texas Football,” 7-on-7 is a fast paced format of football designed to allow additional practice time for athletes with a reduced threat of injury. On Thursday, June 26, Hearne took on Benbrook, Port Isabel and West in pool play. After failing big to Benbrook, who would perform well in tournament play. The Hawks would show the key ability to build on losses by following up with an overtime loss to West and a domination to end the night against Port Isabel. On Friday, teams based on performance are seeded into a bracket and play in the single elimination tournament. The Hawks pulled Dallas area’s Mineral Wells in the first round and battled them to the overtime brink but fell short 19-14. “They competed well.” Hawks 7-on-7 coach Earl Walker said “This is a great group of kids and they have a bright future ahead of them.” Standout for Hardin-Jefferson was athletic weapon D’Corian Warren, who was a number one option on offense and recorded three interceptions at cornerback on defense, including a momentum shifting pick-6 against West. “I’m happy to be out here and I’m thankful for my teammates and coaches,” Warren said. “I’m also thankful for all the supporters that helped us be here and our opponents for giving us someone to compete against.” Hardin-Jefferson starts the season against Kelly Catholic on August 29 at Hawk Stadium, 3155 Hwy 326 S. in Sour Lake.