WAYCROSS, GA - May 4, 2026 - Physicals have been checked, grades have been verified, and Ware County is off to a great start to the 2026–2027 athletic season.
A new season of preparation and opportunity is officially underway across Ware County as student-athletes returned to the field on Monday to begin spring practices and tryouts for several programs. With energy high and a noticeable buzz across all campuses, teams throughout the Ware County School System are laying the foundation for the upcoming year.
At the middle school level, both Ware County Middle School and Waycross Middle School opened spring football practice for rising sixth-grade student-athletes. These early sessions provide a critical introduction to the program, focusing on fundamentals, conditioning, and building a strong team culture.
Ware County Middle School is under the direction of Coach Chad Starling and his staff, while Waycross Middle School is led by Coach Buck Thigpen and his coaching staff. Both programs will continue practice throughout this week with their rising sixth graders, and will transition into next week as rising seventh and eighth grade student-athletes take the field. Spring practice for both middle school programs is scheduled to conclude next Thursday.
At the high school level, the Ware County Gators varsity football program also took the field to begin spring practice. Head Coach Jason Strickland and his staff are leading the Gators through a structured spring schedule that will continue through next Friday. The spring period is a key evaluation and development window as the coaching staff works to install systems, evaluate talent, and build depth heading into the upcoming season.
Also in action on Monday were the Ware County Lady Gators softball program, as tryouts for the 2026 - 2027 season officially began at the Ware County High School softball complex. Under the leadership of Coach Rebecca Kirkland and her staff, student-athletes competed and showcased their skills as they look to earn a spot in the program for the upcoming year.
With participation strong across all levels and excitement building daily, the buzz surrounding Ware County Athletics continues to grow. From the youngest athletes just beginning their journey to experienced varsity competitors preparing for another season, the commitment to excellence remains evident throughout the program.
As spring practices and tryouts continue into next week across multiple levels, anticipation is already building for what promises to be an exciting and competitive year for Ware County Athletics.
For more photos, please click the link below.
5/4/2026: Spring Ball and Tryouts Photos:
