The Ware County Gators Varsity Baseball Team opened Region 1 - AAAA play in dominant fashion on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, traveling to Bloomingdale, Georgia to take on the New Hampstead Phoenix. Behind a powerful offensive performance and strong pitching, the Gators secured an impressive 21 - 3 victory.
Ware County wasted no time getting the offense going. The Gators jumped on the scoreboard in the top of the first inning when a Phoenix defensive miscue allowed a run to score, followed by a Landon Smallwood single to center field that drove in another run to give Ware County an early advantage.
The Gators continued to build momentum in the second inning. Collin Crawford delivered a clutch single that plated two runs, and another Phoenix error allowed Ware County to extend its lead even further.
Ware County broke the game open in the third inning, scoring five runs on four hits. Smallwood added another RBI single, Isaiah White tripled to bring a runner home, and Seth Suess delivered a two-run double to highlight the inning.
The offensive surge continued in the fifth inning when the Gators erupted for eight more runs on six hits. Walker Hudson doubled to drive in a run, Smallwood added another two-run single, and additional RBI hits from White, Crawford, and Suess helped push the Ware County lead even further out of reach.
Smallwood had a perfect day at the plate, collecting three hits in three at-bats, including singles in the first, third, and fifth innings. The Gators finished the game with 17 total hits, with Smallwood and Crawford each recording three hits. Seth Suess, Isaiah White, and Landon Smallwood each drove in three runs.
Ware County also created constant pressure on the base paths, stealing 15 bases throughout the contest. Suess, Slade Sweat, Crawford, and Garrison Joyner each swiped multiple bases as the Gators aggressively attacked the Phoenix defense.
On the mound, Ryder Kinnon earned the win for Ware County. The right-hander worked four innings, allowing just one hit and two runs (one earned) while striking out six. Blake Gunter came on in relief to help close out the game.
New Hampstead was led offensively by leadoff hitter Briar Miller, who recorded two hits. Daniel Rico and Ryder Lane each drove in a run for the Phoenix.
With the win, the Gators open Region 1 - AAAA play with momentum and will now prepare for a rematch with the Phoenix.
Up Next
Ware County will host New Hampstead for a region doubleheader on Friday, March 13, 2026 at Gator Field.
First pitch is scheduled for 4:00 PM.
Tickets: $10.00 and can be purchased online at gofan.co or at the gate.
Live Streaming: Available through the NFHS Network. Fans can visit the NFHS website for streaming information.
Game Day Policies
Clear Bag Policy: Only clear bags will be permitted inside the venue.
Parental Supervision Policy: Elementary and middle school-aged students must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult while attending athletic events.
The Gators will look to carry their strong start in region play into Friday’s home doubleheader as they continue their push through the Region 1 - AAAA schedule.