By: Tom Williams | July 01, 2025
Clarksdale, MS – On a hot and beautiful day in Coahoma County, the gridiron action was just as intense as the summer sun as teams from across the region came together for the first annual Coahoma County Jr. High 7-on-7 Football Tournament. Hosted by Head Football Coach Latarius O’Neil, the event marked a significant milestone for junior high football in the area—and it did not disappoint.
Competing teams included Oxford, West Tallahatchie, Higgins, Lake Cormorant, Charleston, and Cleveland Central. After a day filled with fast-paced matchups and standout plays, Cleveland Central emerged as the tournament champions, with Higgins securing a strong second-place finish.
Coach O’Neil, the visionary behind the tournament, reflected on the success of the day:
“The event was something that I have been thinking about hosting since I became the head coach of the Jr. High Football Program, and this year I finally stepped out on faith and went through with the planning—and it was a success.”
He extended heartfelt gratitude to the Coahoma County School District for their support and to those who rallied behind him to help bring the event to life.
“A huge thanks to my support system for all of the help and support they gave—from suggestions, inputs, ideas, HARD WORK, and encouragement,” he said.
Coach O’Neil also recognized the vital contribution of his fraternity brothers.
“Thank you to my Iota Omicron Chapter of Omega Psi Phi / The Blues City Ques bruhz for their sponsorship and being there to help and SERVE!”
As the dust settles on this year’s tournament, the excitement is already building for what’s to come.
“And just a heads up… I’m running it back NEXT YEAR!” O’Neil declared with enthusiasm.
With strong community support, competitive spirit, and visionary leadership, the Coahoma County Jr. High 7-on-7 Football Tournament has officially kicked off what looks to be a new annual tradition in Delta football.
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