By SAM STAFF/Sports Writer

STARKVILLE — The Class 7A State championship match-up pitting Gulfport and Tupelo Saturday night here is this week’s “Vertical Raise Game of the Week” for SouthMiss6 Sports.

Each week during the prep football season, SouthMiss6 Sports will feature a “GOTW” sponsored by Vertical Raise, the premier online fundraising platform for athletic teams and associated clubs and supporters of all ages.

The Admirals face the Golden Wave at 7 p.m., Saturday here at Davis-Wade Stadium on the campus of Mississippi State University for all the marbles in the largest classification in the state. It’s just the seconds-ever appearance in the state title tilt for Gulfport, and the fourth for THS. Tupelo is the defending Class 7A state champion, and is looking to become the first team in the largest classification in the state of Mississippi to repeat as state champs since South Panola 15 years ago.

Gulfport is still searching for its first state title since a state-wide playoff system was instituted 44 years ago in time for the 11981 season.

For the first time in nearly a decade, the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Mississippi Gridiron Classic (Mississippi High School Activities Association Football State Championships) will be held in Starkville at Mississippi State’s Davis Wade Stadium on December 4-6, 2025.

“First, we express our appreciation to Mississippi State University and Starkville for continued support and for graciously opening their doors to welcome us. We have zero doubt that the experience for our schools, student-athletes, coaches, and fans will be second-to-none.” said Rickey Neaves, Executive Directorof the MHSAA.

As the premier online undraising platform, Vertical Raise utilizes the newest technology through a tested combination of email, text and social media campaigns to maximize the reach of your fundraiser.

Our successes are built upon our best-in-class email deliverability, detailed tracking and the complete personalization of every participant’s page. Combining this proprietary system, with experienced and passionate fundraising coaches has made us the most effective fundraising platform available.

We look forward to partnering with you to elevate your organization to its full potential! Please contact your local fundraising rep Ricky Cunningham at 228-263-4755 for more information.