For the second week in a row, the Albany Lions earned a 21-7 victory over a rival opponent—this time shutting down the Hawley Bearcats in a defensive showcase at Robert Nail Memorial Stadium.

The Lions defense played a pivotal role, recording six sacks, two takeaways, and two defensive scores. A blocked punt led to a special teams touchdown, while Mason McCloy returned an interception for a pick-six, giving Albany a momentum swing that carried throughout the game.

The Albany Lady Lions hosted Class 4A Snyder on Tuesday, Sept. 9, and despite falling in four sets, head coach MJ Reneau said the match offered valuable experience for her team as they prepare for district play.

“I’m taking nothing but positivity away from tonight,” Reneau said. “Snyder challenged us in areas we haven’t been challenged yet—fast middle hits, tough serves. We were missing one of our starters due to illness, and some of our JV girls stepped up and did a tremendous job.”

The 39th annual First Impressions Invitational Pig Sale shattered previous records Sunday, Sept. 7, with gross sales topping $158,300 and an average of $1,251 per head, according to longtime organizer Mike Parsons.

“This was a record-breaking sale in every way,” Parsons said. “The Association will realize more than $24,000 from the proceeds, which will go directly to support the youth of Shackelford County.”

“Therefore choose life, that you and your offspring may live…” Deuteronomy 30:19

For those of us who believe the Bible is God’s word there is no doubt human life is the pinnacle and the most important part of His creation. Not only are we fashioned as human beings in the image of God, but every individual is also His unique creation. “Your eyes saw my unformed substance,” “you knitted me together in my mother’s womb,” “I praise you for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” (Psalm 139)

Today marks the 24th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks—an event that forever changed our country. In the days that followed, even small towns like Albany felt the weight of the tragedy. From locals who were near the towers to families glued to television screens back home, the impact reached far beyond the East Coast.

It had been 626 days since Adam Hill last played in a football game—his final snap for Albany coming in the 2023 state championship at AT&T Stadium on December 14, 2023. A monumental piece of the Lions’ back-to-back title runs in 2022 and 2023, Hill helped lead Albany to consecutive state championships with his toughness, versatility, and relentless work ethic. On Saturday, he finally returned to the field, suiting up for his first college game with the Texas Tech Red Raiders in their season opener against Arkansas–Pine Bluff.

Despite the 2025 dove season opening on a Monday, hunters in Shackelford County reported a day that met, or even exceeded, expectations – and expectations were high. 

Abundant birds, favorable weather, and packed fields made for a promising launch to the season, which had the traditional Sept. 1 start date and ends on Nov. 9 before picking up again for a “second season” Dec. 19, 2025 through Jan. 7, 2026.

Game Warden Jacob Mort said the county is seeing some of the best early results in the region. 

The Shackelford Youth and Livestock Association is expecting its biggest turnout yet for the 39th annual First Impressions Invitational Pig Sale Sunday, Sept. 7, at the Shackelford County Show Barn. 

Well over 40 consignors will bring more than 140 gilts and barrows, possibly as many as 160 — about 20 more than last year — promising a bustling weekend of livestock, competition among breeders, and community.

Association member Reggy Spencer said the increase reflects growing interest in the sale while maintaining careful limits. 

The Albany Lions opened their 2025 football season with a 21-7 home victory over longtime rival Stamford on Friday, August 29, in front of a large crowd at Robert Nail Memorial Stadium.

The game was tight through three quarters, with the Lions and Bulldogs tied at 7 entering the fourth. But Albany’s defense set the tone early and never let up. The Lions held Stamford to under 20 yards of total offense in the first half and only 155 yards for the entire game.

The Albany Lady Lions wrapped up tournament season by hosting their annual varsity volleyball tournament August 28–30. The event featured 12 teams from across Class 1A to Class 4A, bringing strong competition to Albany for three full days of play.

Varsity pool play took place Thursday, with Albany competing in a three-team bracket alongside Comanche and Rotan. The Lady Lions fell in both matches, with early errors proving costly.