Call me the New York Mets of football predictions. Great start followed by a collapse for the ages. Unlike the Mets, who are home for the Major League Baseball playoffs after having a league-best 45-24 through June 12, I still have five weeks to improve.

BLADENBORO – The expected showdown for the Southeastern Conference volleyball championship moved a step closer to reality Thursday.

ELIZABETHTOWN – Jayce Hatcher scored twice and Ishaq Algozy had a goal and two assists Thursday as East Bladen defeated East Columbus 3-1 to move into a tie for first place in the Carolina Conference boys’ soccer standings.

BLADENBORO – West Bladen (7-2, 5-2 Southeastern) won four of the six singles matches and a doubles match Wednesday to claim the win against Whiteville in a Southeastern Conference girls’ tennis match.

ELIZABETHTOWN – The seven East Bladen varsity volleyball players had every reason to be tired Tuesday following a tough four-set loss Monday against non-conference opponent South Columbus.

FAIRMONT – West Bladen remained in the thick of the Southeastern Conference volleyball race with a sweep of Fairmont on Tuesday, winning 25-22, 25-14, 26-24.

The East Bladen and Hobbton football game is scheduled to resume Monday, Oct. 6 at 6:30 p.m. at Lenon Fisher Stadium. The game was suspended last Friday because of lightning, thunder and heavy rain.

ELIZABETHTOWN - In 2026, America will commemorate 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the birth of a nation dedicated to the principles of “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”