Thompson Warriors Defeat Spain Park to Secure Third Consecutive Alabama 7-on-7 Championship Title in Dominant Summer Showcase

In a thrilling display of speed, skill, and strategy, the Thompson Warriors once again proved their supremacy on the summer gridiron, defeating Spain Park to clinch their third consecutive University of Alabama 7-on-7 Championship. The prestigious event, held on the Crimson Tide’s campus, attracted dozens of elite high school programs from across the state, but it was Thompson who emerged victorious, showing why they remain one of the most feared teams in Alabama high school football.

The three-peat wasn’t just a headline—it was a statement. A statement that despite offseason turnover, growing targets on their back, and rising competition, the Warriors are still the gold standard.

Led by an explosive offense and a secondary that made life miserable for opposing quarterbacks, Thompson went undefeated through pool play and the elimination rounds, culminating in a hard-fought 28-20 win over Spain Park in the championship game. Spain Park, to their credit, fought valiantly and showcased a well-coached, disciplined squad that matched Thompson blow-for-blow throughout much of the contest. But as they’ve done so many times before, Thompson’s composure and big-play capability under pressure tipped the scales in their favor when it mattered most.

Head coach Mark Freeman, beaming with pride after the final whistle, reflected on what this championship meant to the team.

“It’s a blessing,” Freeman said. “Every year is a new group, and we’re constantly teaching, building, and trying to establish the standard. Winning three straight in a competitive environment like this doesn’t happen by accident. These kids put in the work, and they understand the expectations.”

Freeman is no stranger to success. Under his leadership, the Thompson program has grown into a perennial powerhouse, both in 7-on-7 tournaments and under the lights in fall. But it’s the summer grind—when players hone chemistry, master schemes, and embrace leadership roles—that lays the groundwork for Friday night dominance.

The Alabama 7-on-7 Championship has become a proving ground not just for bragging rights but for future stars. And Thompson’s roster is filled with them.

Quarterback Trent Seaborn, a rising star and one of the top passers in the state regardless of class, was surgical throughout the tournament. His ability to scan the field, deliver accurate throws under pressure, and lead with poise beyond his years was on full display. In the championship game, Seaborn tossed four touchdowns, including a crucial fourth-down conversion late in the game that effectively sealed the win.

“I trust my guys,” Seaborn said. “We’ve worked all offseason to be on the same page, and it’s paying off. This win is for our team, our coaches, and our school. But we’re not satisfied—we’ve got big goals this year.”

Among his go-to targets was wide receiver Jaylen Ward, who turned heads with his athleticism, crisp routes, and ability to win contested catches. Ward, a rising senior with college offers piling up, caught two touchdowns in the final and consistently created separation throughout the day.

On the other side of the ball, Thompson’s defensive backs were relentless. Safety Cameron White led the unit with multiple pass breakups and an interception in the title game. His anticipation and football IQ were matched only by his vocal leadership.

“Our defense takes pride in making plays,” White said. “It’s not just about 7-on-7 wins. It’s about building habits that translate to the fall. If we communicate, trust our technique, and fly to the ball, we’ll be where we want to be.”

Spain Park, though falling short in the final, showcased a talented and disciplined group that will no doubt be a force in the upcoming high school season. Quarterback Matthew Hooks displayed remarkable field vision and arm strength throughout the tournament. Despite being under pressure from a feisty Thompson defense, he delivered several big-time throws, including two touchdowns in the final game that kept his team within striking distance.

Spain Park head coach Tim Vakakes had nothing but praise for his team’s effort and the quality of competition.

“We came here to compete against the best, and we did that,” Vakakes said. “We know what kind of program Thompson is, and we went toe-to-toe with them. This tournament showed us where we are and where we need to go. I’m proud of our kids.”

The championship matchup had all the makings of a fall Friday night playoff game. The intensity, the stakes, and the level of execution underscored just how meaningful this summer event has become. For the University of Alabama, hosting such a prestigious high school tournament also serves as a showcase for the next wave of talent making its way through the state.

Coaches and recruiters from across the region lined the fields throughout the event, watching intently and taking notes. With Alabama known for producing SEC and NFL-caliber talent, tournaments like this provide a critical glimpse into the future.

As the sun beat down and the crowd lined the fences, the final drive said it all. Up 21-20 with just under a minute left, Seaborn dropped back, scanned the field, and rifled a pass to Ward across the middle. The receiver snagged it in stride and darted past two defenders into the end zone—clinching the win and setting off a celebration on the Thompson sideline.

The Warriors’ sideline erupted with joy. Helmets were raised, players embraced, and chants of “Three-peat!” echoed across the field. But amidst the celebration, there was a quiet resolve—a hunger that suggested they weren’t done yet.

“This was great, but we know what we’re building toward,” Freeman said. “This is part of the journey. Our ultimate goal is in December. That’s when it really counts.”

Still, a third straight title at one of the state’s most competitive summer events isn’t just a feather in the cap—it’s a sign that the culture of excellence at Thompson is alive and thriving.

Thompson’s 7-on-7 success may not involve shoulder pads and full contact, but it’s no less telling. The chemistry developed, the timing fine-tuned, and the leadership forged in the Alabama summer heat are critical foundations for a championship-caliber season.

And if history is any indicator, fall opponents should take note: when Thompson shines in July, they tend to dominate in November.

With their performance in Tuscaloosa, the Warriors reminded everyone once again—when it comes to 7-on-7 and beyond, the road still runs through Thompson.