Good morning, Auburn.

Opelika Children’s Rehabilitation Service Parent Consultant Sharonica Turner graduated from the PIPA (Partners in Policymaking Alabama) program in Prattville, earning the Most Supportive Award voted by her peers.

She said the honor underscores her commitment to advocacy and family support for those facing special health care needs.

Amanda Machamer and Gracie Goodman began summer internships with The Observer to cover local Opelika news and community topics in Auburn from May 18 to July 31 — both bring experience from roles at The Auburn Plainsman.

Auburn head coach Alex Golesh said his first year was successful if he built a clear team identity while integrating over 60 new players and meeting high expectations for the season.

He stressed that physical and mental toughness were key to the team’s future.

The No.3 Lady Gators ended their state tournament run on May 21 at Choccolocco Park — they lost three games, including against Colbert County and Wicksburg.

Head coach Josh McConnell praised the team for their hard work.

Auburn baseball earned a No. 4 national seed on April 18 when NCAA selections were announced — Coach Butch Thompson said the team remained focused as they hosted a regional at Plainsman Park against Milwaukee, Central Florida and North Carolina State, aiming to reach the College World Series.

Quarterback Byrum Brown addressed social media comments about his new throwing motion during a recent interview.

Coach Alex Golesh noted that while Brown may fine-tune his form, his performance remains strong ahead of the Sept. 5 season opener.

Auburn’s football team held a spring practice Iron Bowl drill with Dixieland Delight to recreate game conditions ahead of the November matchup at Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa — Coach Kalen DeBoer said the exercise prepares players for the regular-season finale against Alabama.

Auburn High ended its championship run when the Tigers lost the 7A baseball series to Hewitt-Trussville, falling 4-1 on May 21 at Choccolocco Park and 8-0 on May 22 at Rudy Abbott Field after a 31-win season.

Texas coach Sean Miller praised Auburn transfer Elyjah Freeman Tuesday morning, noting his strong Division II showing and solid season at Auburn where he averaged 9.2 points.

Miller said his athleticism and work ethic signal bright potential for the Longhorns 2026-27 roster.

Auburn's Tigers face a new SEC schedule that includes nine conference games as coach Alex Golesh aims to win more than six games for the first time since 2019.

Traditional rivalries with Georgia & the Iron Bowl against Alabama will continue this fall.