The Russell County 10-and-Under All-Stars are off to a winning start at the 2026 Cal Ripken State Tournament.
Russell County opened tournament play Wednesday night in Elizabethtown with an impressive 9-to-2 victory over Franklin-Simpson.
The Lakers collected eight hits and scored nine runs in the win. Hunter Hopper drove in two runs, while Avery Pierce, Jake Wilson, Ozzy Roy and Raylon Bryant each added an RBI.
Jake Wilson led the offense with two hits and two runs scored while Hayes Hopper, Avery Pierce, Jase Cooper, Ozzy Roy, Raylon Bryant and Tyson Luttrell each contributed a hit.
Russell County also drew three walks and stole three bases.
With the opening-round victory, the Russell County 10U All-Stars advance to face Barren County Thursday night at 7 o’clock Central Time in Elizabethtown.
The winner will continue pool play as Russell County looks to earn a favorable seed for the single-elimination portion of the Cal Ripken State Tournament later this week. Best of luck to the Lakers as they continue their quest for a state championship.