Hoover, Ala. – The Alabama Sports Writers Association released its first in‑season high school football poll of the year on Saturday, and Hoover High School earned a solid No. 6 spot in the Class 6A rankings with 109 points. The Buccaneers secured the ranking after opening the season with a hard‑fought 1‑0 victory over Muscle Shoals High School.
Poll Details and Rankings
The poll, which reflects the opinions of sports writers across the state, lists the top ten Class 6A teams as follows:
- 1. Thompson – 1‑0, 240 points
- 2. Vestavia Hills – 1‑0, 165 points
- 3. Central‑Phenix City – 0‑1, 132 points
- 4. Opelika – 0‑0, 114 points
- 5. Hewitt‑Trussville – 1‑0, 113 points
- 6. Hoover – 1‑0, 109 points
- 7. Auburn – 0‑1, 82 points
- 8. Prattville – 1‑0, 68 points
- 9. Spain Park – 1‑0, 60 points
- 10. Carver‑Montgomery – 1‑0, 28 points
Other schools receiving votes included Dothan (9), Enterprise (9), James Clemens (8), Gadsden City (2) and Daphne (1).
Local Impact and Upcoming Games
Hoover’s rise in the poll comes as the Buccaneers prepare for their next challenge on Thursday in Opelika. The team’s defensive effort against Muscle Shoals, highlighted by a key sack from senior linebacker Marcus Reed, demonstrated the grit that voters rewarded.
Spain Park, which entered the poll tied with Hoover at No. 6, slipped to No. 9 after its own opening win. The Panthers will host Bessemer City on Friday, giving them a chance to climb back up the rankings.
Community Support
The poll release also acknowledged local sponsorship from Southlake Orthopaedics, which has supported coverage of Hoover football throughout the season. The partnership underscores the community’s commitment to youth athletics and the role of local businesses in fostering a strong sports culture.
Looking Ahead
With the season just beginning, both Hoover and Spain Park have ample opportunity to improve their standings. Fans can follow the Buccaneers’ progress on the Hoover High School athletics website and attend the upcoming game at the Hoover Met on Thursday.
As the ASWA poll updates weekly, the rankings will continue to reflect each team’s performance on the field, offering a clear snapshot of Alabama’s high‑school football landscape.
Original reporting: Hoover Sun — read the source article.
