August 2021

AUGUST 2021

High School Football preview

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CONTENTS

On the Cover

Cleveland senior running back Omarion Hampton is gearing up for his senior season.

TABLE OF

Photo courtesy of Laieke Abebe/ We Journal Great Sports.

4 | [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

06 08 10 14 18 20 22 24 26 28 29 30 32

South Johnston turns over the reins to 2007 graduate.

West Johnston hopes to continue upward climb.

Smithfield-Selma looks to keep building new culture.

Cleveland sets sights on a state title.

Clayton aims to build on spring success.

Omarion Hampton prepares for his senior season.

North Johnston preview and schedule Princeton will try its luck in 2A ranks this season.

Corinth Holders looks forward to new conference.

Master football schedule Making the transition from summer to school River Rat Regatta returns on Aug. 14 The Old Playground

[PUBLISHER] column

LIVING THE DREAM — FOR THIS MONTH, ANYWAY

By RANDY CAPPS

In the spring of 1993, I wanted to be Tom Cruise. Or, more specifically, his character from “Top Gun.” But that all changed in a high school English class on the morning after Chris Webber’s infamous time out call in a national title game between Michigan and North Carolina. My teacher started the class with a freestyle writing assignment, during which we could write about anything we liked.

So, I wrote about Webber and the game I watched the night before. My teacher picked up my notebook,

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RANDY CAPPS

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skimmed what I had written and said something like, “You should do this for a living.”

That fall, I started taking his advice. I covered my high school football team for the local paper, learning how to keep stats, conduct interviews and write copy. My classmates and teachers in the program became interview subjects, and I learned the basic skills

TEAM

Volume 5, Number 9

A Shandy Communications, LLC publication

that I’ve since spent almost 30 years sharpening.

It’s a long way from flying a F-14 Tomcat, but I still enjoyed the ride.

That’s why this month’s issue is special for me.

I got to relive my formative years and cover high school football.

Writing football previews in July is tough, and it wouldn’t have been possible with our area coaches and the folks at Johnston County Public Schools who put up

Publisher Randy Capps

randy@johnstonnow.com

with me pestering them about football in the middle of the summer.

I hope you enjoy reading about the Johnston County football teams as much as I enjoyed writing about them.

General Manager Shanna Capps

Creative Consultant Ethan Capps

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Advertisers take sole responsibility for the validity of their advertisement. ©2021 Johnston Now. All rights reserved.

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South Johnston turns over football program to 2007 graduate 6 | [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

South Johnston's Brayden Barefoot looks for running room in a game last spring.

Photo courtesy of John Lucas/ Dunn Area Sports.

By RANDY CAPPS

BENSON — When South Johnston needed a new head football coach, it didn’t have to look very far to find a good candidate.

Lee Webb, a Benson native, a 2007 graduate of the school and the defensive coordinator for the past four seasons, is now in charge of his alma mater — and he’s hit the ground running.

“We’re excited,” he said. “We’re averaging between 60 and 65 kids, and the kids are coming out and giving their best effort. And they’re loving it.”

The Trojans were 2-5 in the COVIDshortened spring campaign, and for Webb, an infusion of enthusiasm and a renewed bond with the Four Oaks, Benson and Meadow communities is the secret to turning the program around.

“We wanted to get the excitement back in the community,” he said. “The staff and the players put on the first youth camp for the community since probably I was 8 years old. So, we’re trying to bring that back and get involved in the community. ... We’ve got good things ahead.

It’s just one of those things that’s going to take time.”

Offensively, the Trojans will have to adjust to life without quarterback Chase Carroll, who signed to play football and baseball at nearby Methodist. At press time, it was still a four-way competition to determine his replacement.

“Our biggest thing offensively is to focus on us,” Webb said. “Take one day at a time. We’re going to get better as an offense and defense (as we go). Just do the small details, that’s what our saying has been all summer.”

Those finer points will be needed as South

SCHEDULE Aug. 20 Aug. 27 Sept. 2 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Sept. 24 Oct. 1 Oct. 8 Oct. 15 Oct. 22 Oct. 29

at Western Harnett Triton Southern Lee Bye at Smithfield-Selma Fike at C.B. Aycock Southern Wayne at Hunt East Wake West Johnston

Johnston enters a new conference this fall. The Trojans will join C.B. Aycock, East Wake, Fike, Hunt, Smithfield-Selma, Southern Wayne and West Johnston in what should be a nip-andtuck league.

“I think that our conference is going to be very competitive,” he said. “It’s going to be one of those conferences where it’s going to be tough for everyone. ... We’re looking forward to it.”

To get ready, Webb put his team through some intense workouts under a hot July sun.

“We’re going to build toughness,” he said.

“That’s what we’re doing right now. These workouts are meant to be tough to prepare them mentally and physically. We tell them all the time, the practices are going to be tougher than the games.”

If that turns out to be true, Webb’s first season in charge of South Johnston could be interesting.

West Johnston hopes to continue upward arch

t c w

o s s s y g

By RANDY CAPPS

o

BENSON — West Johnston improved from 2-9 in Jermaine Harper’s first season as head coach in 2019 to a 5-2 mark in the COVID-shortened season this spring.

While he’s happy with that turnaround, he’s looking for even more from his players this fall.

“It’s about being consistent,” Harper said. “One thing I stress to my guys is that winning’s not easy. And once you start winning, it becomes expected. Just being able to raise that standard, man,

a r t c M p o

8 | [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

s C s e West Johnston quarterback Donte' Harper launches a pass downfield. Photo courtesy of We Journal Great Sports

f Th

to raise that bar. Being able to win consistently is going to be the key in what we’re trying to do here.”

Seven starters return for the Wildcats on offense, headlined by the coach’s son, quarterback Donte’ Harper. The senior passed for 634 yards and seven scores in the spring while adding 235 yards and two more touchdowns on the ground.

“I expect him to be able to run the offense more efficiently,” Harper said.

Nicolas Robinson, who piled up 424 all-purpose yards and six touchdowns as a receiver, running back and returner, will take over the starting tailback spot while center Ryan Denning, a three-year starter, Myles Derleth and Alex Neuenschwander provide punch and experience to the offensive line.

Defensively, West Johnston returns four starters. And while Ryan Schmidt and Cameron Snead are back to anchor the secondary, some new faces will need to emerge on that side of the ball.

“We’ve got a few guys coming up from JV who were players for us on Thursday nights who we’re going to

need to become role players for us on Friday nights,” Harper said. “We’re going to be unconventional. We need to be better at the fundamentals. I expect us to be better at tackling and the things we worked on this summer in the offseason. ... I expect us to be able to cover well, since our strong point will be our secondary.”

The two losses in the spring campaign were to county rivals Cleveland and Clayton, neither of which will be playing in the 3A conference with West Johnston this fall. Instead, it will be C.B. Aycock, East Wake, Fike, Hunt, SmithfieldSelma, Southern Wayne and South Johnston in a league that should be a competitive one.

“It’s definitely a plus when you don’t have to play Cleveland and Clayton,” Harper said. “With the teams coming in, I feel the conference is wide open. Hunt was pretty decent a year ago, Fike usually has a pretty good football team, and there are certain schools we know from (our last conference). With all of these teams coming in, I really think it’s wide open for anyone to win this conference.”

SCHEDULE Aug. 20 at Harnett Central Aug. 27 Western Harnett Sept. 3 Gray’s Creek Sept. 10 BYE Sept. 17 Fike Sept. 24 at Southern Wayne Oct. 1 East Wake Oct. 8 at Smithfield-Selma Oct. 15 CB Aycock Oct. 22 Hunt Oct. 29 at South Johnston

In a normal season, last year’s record would have likely resulted in a playoff berth for the Wildcats. Racking up enough wins to be in that discussion on a year-in, year-out basis is what Harper and his team are working toward.

“Anybody can come in and have one winning season,” he said. “Being able to string winning seasons together and build that culture, that’s what it’s about.”

[ AUGUST 2021 ] | 9

George Brewer, left, and Clevonte Watson are two key returning players on the Smithfield-Selma offense. Photo courtesy of We Journal Great Sports.

By RANDY CAPPS

SMITHFIELD — Deron Donald’s first season in charge of the SmithfieldSelma football program began with his Spartans snapping a 10-game losing streak which dated back to 2019 with a pair of wins over Western Harnett and North Johnston, and a renewed sense of optimism around the program.

Five straight losses to close the campaign led to a 2-5 mark, but considering the fact that the Spartans graduated

Smithfield-Selma looks to continue building its culture

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Smithfield-Selma breaks the huddle. Photo courtesy of We Journal Great Sports.

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only eight seniors and return 13 starters, things are looking up on Durwood Stephenson Parkway.

“It’s really establishing a culture, I think,” he said. “Getting those guys to learn how to work in the weight room, understanding what we want to do as we build our pillars. Getting those guys to learn how to win. Even though we went 2-5, if you look at those games, three of the five we lost, we were in those games.

“If the guys buy in and do what they’re expected to do, we can be successful.”

Measuring that success will be a bit different for Smithfield-Selma this fall as it finds itself in a new conference with C.B. Aycock, East Wake, Fike, Hunt, Southern Wayne, South Johnston and West Johnston.

“Well, we lose the big two in Cleveland and Clayton,” Donald said. “Like I always say, we’re not afraid to play anybody, but we understand ... we don’t have the numbers that some of those schools have. So, I think by going into a true 3A conference, I think that’s going to be better for us because it will be more even in terms of numbers. I think it’s going to be a very competitive conference, and

12 | [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

Schedule Aug. 20 at Princeton Aug. 27 at Nash Central Sept. 2 North Johnston Sept. 10 Bye Sept. 17 South Johnston Sept. 24 Hunt Oct. 1 at Fike Oct. 8 West Johnston Oct. 15 at Southern Wayne Oct. 22 C.B. Aycock Oct. 29 at East Wake we’re excited about it.”

Eight of those 13 returning starters are on the defensive side of the ball, and Michael Thompson, Jaylen Stancil, Joshua Hightower and Jalil Howell provide a good core group for the Spartans.

“Those guys really played good ball for us last year, and I think they’re going to have a big year for us this year,” Donald said. “And the thing about those guys is they’re all going to be juniors.”

On the other side of the ball, the

Spartans return their two most important players in quarterback George Brewer and running back Clevonte Watson. Brewer threw for almost 600 yards and seven touchdowns in the spring while Watson had a 300-yard game to his credit against North Johnston en route to piling up 742 yards and 10 scores on the ground.

“Those two guys are two that we’re really going to be counting on,” Donald said.

With a normal offseason of work, a more forgiving schedule and a year to implement his ideas, Donald is looking for even more growth from the Spartan program in his second season at the helm.

“We want to win more games,” he said. “That’s the goal. But I want to see improvement with the guys, and I want to see their game go up to another level.

I want our coaches to take their game up a level, and when people see us play, I want them to say, ‘that’s a well coached, hard nosed, tough, gritty football team’ in every area. Offense, defense, special teams, I want to do everything with a spirit of excellence. And if we do that, that’s going to carry over to the win column.”

[ AUGUST 2021 ] | 13

Cleveland hopes to take final step in 2021

Schedule Aug. 20 Cary Aug. 27 at Rose Sept. 3 Conley Sept. 10 South Central Sept. 17 Corinth Holders Sept. 23 (Thurs.) at South Garner Oct. 1 Fuquay-Varina Oct. 8 BYE Oct. 15 at SE Raleigh Oct. 22 Garner Oct. 29 at Clayton

By RANDY CAPPS

Cleveland's Cam Goins tries to step out of a tackle against Clayton. Photo courtesy of We Journal Great Sports.

14 | [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

CLAYTON — When you lose only one game in a high school football season, that’s almost always considered to be a success.

That’s where Cleveland finds itself after posting a 10-1 mark last spring. Of course, the lone loss for the Rams was a 24-16 decision against Mount Tabor in the State 3AA Championship game last spring, and that means that finding a No. 1 team goal for this season was easy for head coach Scott Riley

Cleveland quarterback Skyler Locklear looks for a receiver in the Eastern 3AA title game this past spring. Photo courtesy of We Journal Great Sports.

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“We have only one unaccomplished goal as a program remaining,” he said, “Win the last game!”

With seven starters returning from a stingy defense and six more back on campus from an offense that scored more than 43 points per night, the pieces are in place to make another run at the program’s first state title.

The path to the postseason will be a bit different for Riley’s team this year, however, as the Rams will move into a 4A conference with newly built Willow Spring, Fuquay-Varina, Garner, South Garner, Southeast Raleigh, Corinth Holders and Clayton. Willow Spring will not field a varsity team this season.

After a season played in springtime, the schedule will be a bit more standard this time around. Not that playing football in April was necessarily a bad thing.

“We’re excited for an opportunity for a ‘normal’ season,” Riley said.

“I am also excited about seeing the potential of the team that is

16 | [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

coming back from our Eastern Championship. ... But I can’t lie. The weather was nice in the spring once we got past the rain in February.”

No matter the weather, the biggest reason for optimism on Polenta Road is the return of Omarion Hampton.

The highly touted running back went down with an ankle injury in the first Clayton game, missing the second half of that contest and the six games that followed. In just 4 1/2 games, he rushed for team-high 685 yards and tied for the team lead with 13 touchdowns.

“As one of the best football players in the nation, he is also one of the hardest workers,” Riley said.

“Opponents will have difficultly containing him.”

As good as Hampton is, the Rams offense is far from a one-man show.

Senior quarterback Skyler Locklear became the focal point of the attack last season, completing more than 65 percent of his passes for 2,275 yards and 21 touchdowns while adding 411 yards and nine more scores on

the ground.

His leading receiver, junior Jashawn Middleton (48 receptions, 685 yards, 5 TD) has grown a couple of inches to six feet tall and “added 10-15 pounds of muscle” in the offseason.

The offense gets plenty of attention, but the Cleveland defense should be formidable as well.

Safety Keyshawn Monk (67 tackles, 2 INT) and corner Leron Sparks (40 tackles, 2 INT) anchor a fast and athletic secondary while linebackers Dillon Pardue (46 tackles, 5 sacks) and Lenix Martinez (65 tackles, 5 sacks) offer “a dangerous edge presence” and versatility, respectively.

Throw in younger players like Cam Goins (349 all-purpose yards, 5 TD), Josiah Peters (31 tackles) and Isaac Piatek (285 all-purpose yards, 3 TD) and more experienced contributors like middle linebacker KD Harrison (60 tackles, 14 tackles for loss) and the stage could be set for a similar story to last season’s journey — perhaps with a happier ending.

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[ AUGUST 2021 ] | 17

Comets look to build on their spring success

By RANDY CAPPS Clayton's Everett Boyd brings down Cleveland's Jayshawn Middleton during the Eastern 3AA title game.

Photo courtesy of We Journal Great Sports.

18 | [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

CLAYTON — Clayton posted an 8-2 record in the spring campaign, and considering the fact that both losses came to Cleveland, the eventual 3AA Eastern champions and state runnersup, the Comets were one of the best teams around a few months ago.

So the question is what can they do for an encore?

Clayton returns five starters from an offense that put up a little more than 31 points a game, and with three of those

Clayton's Donovan Spellman celebrates after a third-down play. Photo courtesy of We Journal Great Sports.

returnees (Brandon Coats, Will Coats and Zach Klingenbeck) manning the offensive line, the Comets should boast a nice running game behind the new starter at running back, Antonio Sinko. Everett Boyd, Ian Martin and Deairan Campbell also got plenty of action in the spring at wide receiver.

“I feel good about our (line) which brings back three starters,” coach Shane Handy said. “I think our wide receiver group will be very talented, and we have moved some guys on defense to better use their talents.”

Donovan Spellman, the reigning Greater Neuse 3A Defensive Player of the Year and recent Appalachian State commitment, anchors a defensive unit that returns four starters. Fellow defensive end Cade Cyrus and linebacker Mason Rambo also provide talent and experience to the front seven.

In addition to the new faces at quarterback and in the defensive

secondary — and a new artificial turf field at Nixon-Fowler Stadium — Clayton will be playing in a new 4A conference this fall. The Comets will join newly built Willow Spring, Fuquay-Varina, Garner, South Garner, Southeast Raleigh, Corinth Holders and Cleveland in the new league, though Willow Spring will not field a varsity football team this season.

“We are moving to 4A and will have a variety of new teams we are playing,” Handy said. “It will be nice to get back to a normal schedule. Our young people deserve to get back to school.”

Despite a jump in classification and a new collection of conference foes with which to contend, the goals for Handy’s squad haven’t changed from the spring.

“Our goals are always to win our county, the conference championship and a state championship.” Handy said. “We will need really improved play on offense and to be more consistent on defense with the better teams we will play. A new and

Schedule Aug. 20 Aug. 27 Sept. 3 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Sept. 24 Oct. 1 Oct. 8 Oct. 15 Oct. 22 Oct. 29

at Grimsley Wake Forest at Wakefield Jordan Fuquay-Varina at Garner at SE Raleigh South Garner at Corinth Holders BYE Cleveland

challenging schedule will prepare us for the transition to 4A.” Based on the success of his first Clayton squad a few months ago and the pieces still in place from that team, there’s little reason not to expect more of the same from the Comets this fall. [ AUGUST 2021 ] | 19

Omarion Hampton prepares fo

By RANDY CAPPS

CLAYTON — Omarion Hampton’s numbers are eye popping.

He’s rushed for more than 3,400 yards and 49 touchdowns in his three years at Cleveland High and in the process, became one of the most sought after recruits in the country. He’s also a little over 6 feet tall, weighs about 215 pounds and runs with a rare combination of speed, agility and power.

Because of all that, he’s a four-star recruit, according to 247Sports, the fifthrated player in North Carolina in the Class of 2022 and the 11th-best running back in the nation.

Many times in that situation, players will wait until much closer to National Signing Day in February to make that choice — choosing a hat off a table as ESPN’s cameras watch on. Hampton, after official visits to Auburn, Florida, Ohio State, Penn State and North Carolina, made his choice on July 23 (after this edition went to press).

“I feel like I already found where I wanted to go after talking with my family,” he said. “(The recruiting process) has been real good. I got to learn a lot. It was good to get out there on the campuses. It was a good learning experience.”

If you talk with him for a few minutes, you’ll hear about his mother, Leslie Hampton, his father, Cory Chappell and his brother, Jamal. You’ll also hear about his teammates and his school. What you won’t hear much of is him talking about himself, which doesn’t surprise his coach, Scott Riley.

“He’s an unbelievable football player,” he said. “A great leader and a great young man, too. That’s what is kind of remarkable about him. He’s always got those physical talents, but he puts a lot of work into it as well. He’s really humble, so it’s a total package deal with him. He’s 20 | [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

Omarion Hampton tries to break a tackle during a game against Clayton. Photo courtesy of We Journal Great Sports.

for final season at Cleveland one of the best high school football players I’ve ever seen, coached against or coached. So, we’re glad he’s on our team.”

It hasn’t be a smooth journey for Hampton, however. In the midst of his junior season, which was shaping up to be his best yet, he suffered an ankle injury against Clayton. It ended his season after just five games and made him a spectator in the Rams’ run to the state championship game, where they fell, 24-16, to Mount Tabor.

“It was tough,” Hampton said. “I feel like they did well and all, but it was kind of hard sitting on the sidelines. I was real proud of everybody and the way they played. The way they put their heart out there. ... Yeah, I definitely want to get back there with my teammates and try to win it this year.”

Hampton is participating in summer workouts and is looking forward to his senior season.

“I’m feeling good,” he said. “I’m basically cleared. I still can’t do certain stuff, but I’m basically 100%.”

With the recruiting process behind him, and after averaging almost 12 yards per carry in his shortened spring season, there’s no telling the sort of numbers Hampton will pile up in his senior season.

There’s little doubt that, if he’s healthy, those final statistics will be amazing.

But they won’t tell the whole story about a young man who enjoys being part of a community.

“I know that Cleveland has helped me out a lot, through everything,” he said. “They were real supportive through the whole ankle thing. It’s been great to be here.”

Omarion Hampton, 28, walks off the field with Julio Fraire during a game this spring. Photo courtesy of We Journal Great Sports.

[ AUGUST 2021 ] | 21

North Johnston hopes experience will lead to bounce-back season

By RANDY CAPPS

KENLY — The 2020 season, which was pushed back to this spring because of COVID, was a challenging one for everyone.

At the top of that list is North Johnston, which struggled to find a rhythm, dropping all seven of its contests.

There’s nowhere to go but up for the Panthers under third-year coach Michael Barnett, who’s looking forward to a more normal football season this time around.

22 | [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

“I’m so excited for it,” he said. “We get to have summer workouts, a 10-game season for the kids. I’m ready.”

Another reason for optimism is the fact that the Panthers welcome back 15 starters for the fall campaign.

“It helps us from an experience standpoint,” Barnett said, “We were mostly freshmen and sophomores in the spring.”

Quarterback Carter Aycock, receiver Isiah Greene and “the Tyler twins” on the offensive line, Tyler Boswell and Tyler Dominquez, will provide

North Johnston quarterback Carter Aycock gets ready to make a throw.

Photo courtesy of We Journal Great Sports.

leadership for the offense, while Cooper Gibson, who started at middle linebacker as a freshman, fellow linebackers Anthony Muniz and Steven

Saunders and defensive end Ashton Woodall will headline the defense, Of course, in the 2A ranks, many of those players will

Schedule Aug. 20 Farmville Central Aug. 27 at Rosewood Sept. 2 (Thursday) at Smithfield-Selma Sept. 10 Nash Central Sept. 17 BYE Sept. 24 at North Pitt Oct. 1 Spring Creek Oct. 8 Beddingfield Oct. 15 at Goldsboro Oct. 22 at Eastern Wayne Oct. 29 Princeton

play on both sides of the ball.

This fall, they’ll be doing so in the newly created Neuse 6 Conference with Beddingfield, Eastern Wayne, Goldsboro, Spring Creek and traditional rival Princeton.

“I love it,” Barnett said of the new league. “There’s way less driving, I know all of the coaches and there will be good

football.”

Barnett hopes that the on-the-job training his team received in the spring will pay dividends this season.

“We want to build upon the competitiveness that we finished last season with,” he said. “We want to build on that and convert that into several wins this season.”

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Princeton gears up for move to 2A

Christian Perris makes a tackle.

Photo courtesy of We Journal Great Sports.

By RANDY CAPPS

PRINCETON — The COVID-shortened 2020 campaign was a tale of two seasons for Princeton.

The Bulldogs raced out to a 7-0 record this spring and drew the five seed in the State 1AA Playoffs, but it all came to an abrupt end in the opening round in a 39-28 road loss to Edenton Holmes.

Coach Travis Gaster will reload with five returning starters on defense and six on offense, including some key contributors from last season’s squad.

Senior tailback and linebacker Jaydon Brooks tallied 1,293 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns last fall, while junior wing back and corner Christian Perris added 617 yards and 12 more scores. Another senior, Paul Edens, will line up next to Brooks in the “Fred” position, and he completed nine of his 10 pass attempts for 219 yards and four scores in the spring.

He also recorded 19 tackles.

Junior Jake Crocker, voted team captain as a sophomore, brings stability to the offensive line, while Peyton Mitchell, another junior, was one of the leading tacklers while making the calls and adjustments from his safety position.

24 | [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

Schedule Aug. 20 Smithfield-Selma Aug. 27 at East Duplin Sept. 3 Rosewood Sept. 10 BYE Sept. 17 at Richlands Sept. 24 at Louisburg Oct. 1 at Eastern Wayne Oct. 8 Goldsboro Oct. 15 Spring Creek Oct. 22 at Beddingfield Oct. 29 at North Johnston The Bulldogs also have an accomplished kicker in McKinley Uzzell, who hit 37 of his 39 extra points last season.

“Our strength will be leadership,” Gaster said. “We have a solid group of seniors that lead by example, both on and off the field. I am really looking forward to seeing them take charge of our team during the season.”

The Princeton Bulldogs take the field. Photo courtesy of We Journal Great Sports.

Princeton will rely on that experience as it joins the 2A ranks this season, sharing the Neuse 6 Conference with Beddingfield, Eastern Wayne, Goldsboro, Spring Creek and traditional rival North Johnston. It’s a step up in competition, but one about which Gaster is excited.

“Moving up in classification will be a big challenge for us, but it’s one that we are ready to take on,” he said. “Our goal

is simple, to be a champion. We want to be a better team every week and be playing our best football at the end of the season. Winning the first-ever Neuse 6 Conference will be one of our goals this season.”

Getting there, Gaster believes, is a straight-forward process.

“We must be a fundamentally sound football team that can win all three phases

of a football game,” he said. “Football is a simple game that we don’t need to make complex. If we block and tackle better than our opponent, we will usually win.

In order to do this, we must continue to get stronger in the weight room and practice fast.”

It’s the sort of process that could make the Bulldogs’ jump to the 2A ranks a memorable one.

[ AUGUST 2021 ] | 25

By RANDY CAPPS

Corinth Holders running back Fred Foreman rushes during a game last spring.

Photo courtesy of We Journal Great Sports.

WENDELL — The reaction is always mixed every four years when the NCHSAA has its realignment. Some schools are angry to be shuffled into a new league while others are eager to embrace a new conference setup.

Put Corinth Holders in the latter category.

The Pirates, after spending the last cycle sharing a league with perennial powers Rolesville and Wake Forest, will get to play their trade with more familiar schools this fall.

“We’re moving to the Greater Neuse conference,” head coach Adam Khavari said. “We’re excited about having teams closer to home in our conference.”

Cleveland and Clayton are the still formidable, but far more familiar faces in the new conference, while Willow Spring, Fuquay-Varina, Garner, South Garner and Southeast Raleigh round out the Greater Neuse 4A. Willow Spring, a new school in Fuquay-Varina, will

Corinth Holders hopes to grow up fast in new conference

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not field a varsity team this season.

The changes don’t stop there for Corinth Holders, either.

“We have a new defensive coordinator, Thomas Oothoudt, who coached with us last year and is moving into that role,” Khavari said.

“We’ve also added Mike Loutzeheiser from West Brunswick to coach our running backs. We’re excited to have Mike and what he brings to the staff.”

Loutzehiser will get to work with Fred Foreman (403 yards, 2 TD) and Jaheim Fields (223 yards, 2 TD) in the Pirate backfield.

“We’re excited to have that tandem back,” Khavari said.

“They don’t say a whole lot, but they work hard and they’re explosive with the ball in their hands.”

In total, four starters return on the offensive side

of the ball, so there will be some new faces this fall.

Senior Isaiah Faulkner was the backup quarterback last season, and he’ll be under center this fall.

Austin White and Justin Horta will anchor the offensive line, and both will be key components for the Pirates’ success.

“We expect a lot of production and leadership out of both of those young men,” Khavari said. “They’re both going into their third varsity season and we need their veteran presence there as we break in some of our young guys.”

There’s a little more experience returning on defense, as five starters from last year’s 1-5 squad are back on campus.

It starts up front for Corinth Holders with a pair of all-conference defensive

Schedule Aug. 20 at Franklinton Aug. 27 at Southern Nash Sept. 2 (Thursday) Northern Nash Sept. 10 BYE Sept. 17 at Cleveland Sept. 24 at Southern Alamance Oct. 1 South Garner Oct. 8 at Fuquay-Varina Oct. 15 Clayton Oct. 22 SE Raleigh Oct. 29 at Garner lineman in Xzavier Fields and Donte Whitehead and hybrid defensive end/linebacker Josh Ryals.

“They’re both athletic, strong and very energetic,” Khavari said of Fields and Whitehead. “(Ryals) brings experience and grit to our defense.”

Despite the new faces and sharing a league with

Cleveland and Clayton, the Pirates are still thinking big in 2021.

“Our goals are always the same every year,” Khavari said. “Win the conference and compete for a state championship. We have to stay healthy and our young players have to grow up in a hurry for us to be able to do those things.”

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2021 Master Football Schedule

Aug. 20 South Johnston at Western Harnett, 7 p.m.

Clayton at Grimsley Farmville Central at North Johnston, 7 p.m.

Cary at Cleveland, 7:30 p.m.

Corinth Holders at Franklinton, 7 p.m.

Smithfield-Selma at Princeton, 7 p.m.

West Johnston at Harnett Central, 7 p.m.

Aug. 27 Triton at South Johnston Wake Forest at Clayton North Johnston at Rosewood, 7 p.m.

Cleveland at J.H. Rose, 7 p.m.

Corinth Holders at Southern Nash, 7 p.m.

Princeton at East Duplin, 7 p.m.

Western Harnett at West Johnston, 7 p.m.

Smithfield-Selma at Nash Central, 7 p.m.

Sept. 2 (Thursday) Southern Lee at South Johnston, 7 p.m.

North Johnston at Smithfield-Selma, 7 p.m.

Northern Nash at Corinth Holders, 7 p.m.

Sept. 3 Clayton at Wakefield Conley at Cleveland, 7:30 p.m.

Rosewood at Princeton, 7 p.m.

Gray’s Creek at West Johnston, 7 p.m.

Sept. 10 South Johnston BYE Corinth Holders BYE Princeton BYE West Johnston BYE Smithfield-Selma BYE Jordan at Clayton Nash Central at North Johnston, 7 p.m.

South Central at Cleveland, 7:30 p.m.

Hospice doesn’t mean giving up hope.

919.877.9959 heartlandhospice.com/Raleigh

28 | [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

Sept. 17 South Johnston at Smithfield-Selma Fuquay-Varina at Clayton North Johnston BYE Corinth Holders at Cleveland, 7 p.m.

Princeton at Richlands, 7 p.m.

Fike at West Johnston, 7 p.m.

Sept. 23 (Thursday) Clayton at Garner Sept. 24 Fike at South Johnston North Johnston at North Pitt, 7 p.m.

Cleveland at South Garner, 7 p.m.

Corinth Holders at Southern Alamance, 7 p.m.

Princeton at Louisburg, 7 p.m.

West Johnston at Southern Wayne, 7 p.m.

Hunt at Smithfield-Selma, 7 p.m.

Oct. 1 South Johnston at CB Aycock Clayton at SE Raleigh Spring Creek at North Johnston, 7 p.m.

Fuquay-Varina at Cleveland, 7 p.m.

South Garner at Corinth Holders, 7 p.m.

Princeton at Eastern Wayne, 7 p.m.

East Wake at West Johnston, 7 p.m.

Smithfield-Selma at Fike, 7 p.m Oct. 8 Southern Wayne at South Johnston South Garner at Clayton Beddingfield at North Johnston, 7 p.m.

Cleveland BYE Corinth Holders at Fuquay-Varina, 7 p.m.

Goldsboro at Princeton, 7 p.m.

West Johnston at Smithfield-Selma, 7 p.m.

Oct. 15 South Johnston at Hunt Clayton at Corinth Holders North Johnston at Goldsboro, 7 p.m.

Cleveland at SE Raleigh, 7 p.m.

Spring Creek at Princeton, 7 p.m.

CB Aycock at West Johnston, 7 p.m.

Smithfield-Selma at Southern Wayne, 7 p.m.

Oct. 22 East Wake at South Johnston Clayton BYE North Johnston at Eastern Wayne, 7 p.m.

Garner at Cleveland, 7 p.m.

SE Raleigh at Corinth Holders, 7 p.m.

Princeton at Beddingfield, 7 p.m.

Hunt at West Johnston, 7 p.m.

CB Aycock at Smithfield-Selma, 7 p.m.

Oct. 29 West Johnston at South Johnston (SN) Cleveland at Clayton Princeton at North Johnston, 7 p.m.

Corinth Holders at Garner, 7 p.m.

Smithfield-Selma at East Wake, 7 p.m.

Nov. 5 Playoffs begin Dec. 11 State championships

MAKING THE TRANSITION FROM SUMMER TO SCHOOL Submitted by KIDS ‘R’ KIDS LEARNING ACADEMY OF CLAYTON

SUMMER-TO-SCHOOL SUCCESS TIPS As the summer vacation winds down and the structure of the new school year nears, it’s important for children to get into a regular routine. Here are a few helpful tips to ensure that your young ones are able to transition into optimal learning mode as easily as possible.

1 2 3

Get dressed for the day. Even though you may not go anywhere, this will help you feel like there is a beginning and an end to the day.

Talk about the plans for the day.

When the entire family discusses their schedules, everyone knows what to expect and this will help your child manage their day.

5

Make time for free play outside.

Your child may be expected to participate in two or three recess breaks each day at school, so start that pattern as consistently as possible while home.

6 7 8

Keep regular meal and snack schedules to help create mile markers in the day. This will give you time to adjust activities or create a different plan.

Incorporate nap time or rest time into the day. This is especially important for those entering preschool or kindergarten. Your child will benefit from the time by himself and will be rested for the evening routine.

Have a backup activity. If an activity doesn’t go the way you think, or something takes less time than planned, you’ll be able to adjust on the fly.

Discuss changes in the schedule with your child. This will help him to be more flexible when he needs to complete a different task.

Don’t schedule every minute of the day. At school, your child has free time to play and your daily schedule should include some

4

unstructured time at home, too. This helps your child learn to fight boredom on their own and develop their creative imagination.

The keys for both your and your child’s success are consistency and communication. Don’t expect compliance overnight and if you begin to feel overwhelmed, remember that tomorrow is a new day. Learn what worked well today and start again tomorrow!

Even if they don’t know or verbalize it, your child will appreciate the structure you create at home to prepare them for the school year.

Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Clayton is a five-star child learning academy, serving the Clayton community for 15 years. To learn more, visit www.KidsRKidsClayton.com or call 919550-8864.

[ AUGUST 2021 ] | 29

RIVER RAT REGATTA RETURNS ON AUGUST 14 Submitted by DOWNTOWN SMITHFIELD DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

SMITHFIELD — After being delayed and then canceled in 2019 due to weather and the 2020 event being scrubbed due to COVID-19, the Smithfield Yacht Club will open once again for the River Rat Regatta on the Neuse on Saturday, Aug. 14 at 4 p.m. The event will feature a race between two-person teams in cardboard boats from Smithfield’s Boat Ramp on N. Front Street to the Deputy C. Paul West, Sr. Bridge.

The boats must be constructed entirely 30 | [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

from corrugated cardboard, glue and duct tape. Entries will compete in either the youth (under 13) or adult division, and prizes will be awarded for the fastest two times in the youth division and top three in the adult division. There will also be overall awards given for Best Decorated and the Titanic Award for most memorable sinking. Rules and registration forms are available at bit.ly/ riverratregatta.

“We had a great turnout for the first River Rat Regatta in 2018, with thirtythree creative and mostly well-built boats, and an enthusiastic crowd cheering the teams on toward the finish line,” said

Gary Johnson, Smithfield Parks and Recreation Director. “After not being able to have the regatta for two years, we can’t wait to see the entries that people have been working on.”

Awards will be given at 7 p.m. and will be followed by live music from Blind Joy, a local classic rock band, until 9.

The River Rat Regatta is hosted by Smithfield Parks & Recreation, the Downtown Smithfield Development Corporation, Smithfield Police Department and Smithfield Fire Department. For more information about the event or to register, please visit bit.ly/ riverratregatta.

[ AUGUST 2021 ] | 31

THE OLD PLAYGROUND

By ALISON HENDRIX

There once lived a little girl with the brightest eyes and happiest smile the world had ever seen. The little girl and her mommy often went for drives to pass the time.

One day, the two had been driving for a long time among country lanes, open fields and lots of sunshine. They were both ready to be out of the car for a while. And as luck would have it, they rounded a curve to see a rusty old playground.

The little girl saw it and begged her mommy to let her play, so the car pulled in and stopped. The two got out, stretched their legs, and breathed in fresh country air. Then, the little girl ran to the slide.

She climbed up, her hands turning reddish brown from the rust on the rungs of the ladder.

When she got to the top, she cried, “Watch me, Mommy!” then, “weeeee!” all the way down the slide.

Her mommy caught her at the bottom, and the little girl climbed up again. This time, she imagined the slide was happier for having someone to play there, and it seemed less rusty, and the next time she climbed up, she thought it was shiny and bright, like brand new!

The other play things changed, too: the monkey bars glimmered in the sun as she swooshed across them, the swings’ faded blue rubber bounced to life. Even the creaky old merry go round now glided smoothly with no noise.

“Mommy!” said the girl, “it’s like new!” And for a moment, Mommy’s eyes became as bright as the little girl’s, but then they faded. Mommy couldn’t see anything more than a rusty old playground that needed to be replaced.

She answered, “Let’s get back in the car sweetie.” As they walked away, the swing became dull again, the slide lost its shine and the merry go round, still moving from the girl’s last spin, began to creak and moan.

The little girl asked every day to go back to that playground, and her mommy often brought her there. She invited a friend to come, and soon there were many children going to the playground on a regular basis.

When the little girl was all grown up and had children of her own, she brought them there to play. Though now more rustcovered than ever, it would always shine like brand new the moment the children arrived.

The End 32 | [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

[ AUGUST 2021 ] | 33

Add your organization’s events to the community calendar at www.JohnstonNow.com or email us at calendar@JohnstonNow.com.

For the full community calendar with hundreds of area events, visit www.JohnstonNow.com

CALENDAR of events

NAMI Support Groups and Classes

The National Alliance on Mental Illness offers free weekly support groups throughout Johnston County for both those who are in recovery with mental illness (NAMI Connection) and for their caregivers, loved ones and friends as well (NAMI Family Support). For more information on the support groups and educational classes of NAMI Johnston County, NC, visit www.namijcnc.net, email namijcnc@ gmail.com or call 919-980-5277.

Second Monday, 6 p.m.

PACT meeting Virtual Meeting via Google Meet Parents of Adult Children in Transition meets the second Monday of each month. To learn more about this program which benefits families coping with special needs, contact Jeff Holland at hollandjeff@yahoo.com.

Second Wednesday, noon

Smithfield Running Club Join the Smithfield Running Club each week to meet new people, get back in shape, train for races and explore the growing downtown area of Smithfield. For more information, find them on Facebook by searching for Smithfield Running Club or email smithfieldrunningclub@gmail.com.

The Woman’s Club of Clayton meeting Virtual via Zoom The Woman’s Club of Clayton (TWCC) is a nonprofit philanthropic organization made up of professional women who share a common goal: to work together to improve our local community, socially, physically, culturally and educationally.

Please consider joining us and help us serve those in need of assistance. TWCC meets at Noon the second Wednesday of each month (except June, July and August).

Second and Fourth Tuesdays, 7 a.m.

Second Thursday, 6:30 p.m.

Every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday, 6 p.m.

Cleveland School Rotary Club Cleveland Draft House, Garner Cleveland School Rotary Club meets bi-weekly and serves the citizens of the 40/42 area of Johnston County and Garner.

Every Tuesday, 6:30 p.m.

Smithfield Kiwanis Club Meeting Golden Corral, Smithfield Come for dinner and learn about this volunteer service club with a focus on actively supporting children’s programs. Learn about Smithfield and neighboring communities from weekly presenters.

Community and social opportunities as well. Visit www.facebook.com/KiwanisClubOfSmithfieldNC to learn more.

First and third Tuesdays, Noon

Clayton Rotary Mid-day Club Virtual meeting via Zoom This small group of service-minded individuals is very dedicated to community betterment in Clayton and Johnston County. Visit www.facebook.com/ClaytonMiddayRotary to learn more.

Johnston County Writers Group Virtual meeting via Zoom Join a hard-working group of local writers and poets, beginner to advanced, who network, critique each other’s work, listen to guest authors and organize open mics and write-ins around the county. It’s free and open to the public. For more information, email facilitator Cindy Brookshire at jocowriters@gmail.com.

Every other Monday, 6 p.m.

Kiwanis Club of Clayton, N.C. Virtual meeting The Kiwanis Club of Clayton, N.C., serves the community with emphasis on school youth Kiwanis programs. It advises two local high school KEY (Kiwanis Educating Youth) clubs and one elementary school club and meets each month. Visit www.facebook.com/ClaytonKiwanis to learn more.

Third Monday

Vietnam Veterans of America Smithfield American Legion Post 132 The Smithfield Chapter 990 meeting of the Vietnam Veterans of America is every third Monday of the month at 7 p.m.

Third Monday, 6:30 p.m.

First and third Thursdays, 6:45 p.m.

Clayton Civitan Club meeting Clayton Civitan Building, McCullers St., Clayton Join the Clayton Civitan Club for its monthly meetings. Call 919-550-0694 for more information.

First and third Thursdays, 6:30 p.m.

Fellowship Masonic Lodge #84 meeting Fellowship Masonic Lodge #84, S. Brightleaf Blvd., Smithfield Fellowship Masonic Lodge #84 meets the first and third Thursday of each month. Dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m., and visitors are welcome. The lodge will open at 7:30 p.m. For more information, email Grover Dees at gdees1@nc.rr.com.

34 | [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

Johnston County Beekeepers Association meeting Johnston County Ag Center The Johnston County Beekeepers Association serves beginner and experienced beekeepers with educational programs and experiences. We teach and encourage better apiculture methods and promote cooperation and sharing among beekeepers, homeowners and farmers. Our monthly meetings are free and open to everyone. For more information, visit www.jocobee.org or email JCBAPresident@jocobee.org.

Third Tuesday

Widowed Persons Fellowship Group Parkside Cafe, Pine Level The Widowed Persons Fellowship Group, Johnston County, cordially invites widowed males and females to join them

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[ AUGUST 2021 ] | 35

at their monthly self-pay dinner meeting. There is no charge to join their group. Come and see what they’re all about. Call 919-965-3865 with any questions.

Fourth Monday, 6:30 p.m.

Disabled American Veterans meeting Smithfield DAV, Buffalo Road Smithfield Chapter 44 of the Disabled American Veterans meets on the fourth Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m.

Every Thursday, 6:45 a.m.

Clayton Rotary Morning Club Virtual meeting via Zoom Every Thursday morning, 70 service-minded people, representing all ages, genders and races meet. Learn more at www.claytonrotaryclub.org.

Every Thursday, 6 p.m.

Clayton Area Toastmasters meetings Virtual meeting via Zoom Clayton Area Toastmasters is a public speaking club in affiliation with Toastmasters International. For more, visit claytontm.com.

First Thursday, 6:30 p.m.

Four Oaks American Legion meeting American Legion Building, Hwy. 301, Four Oaks All veterans are encouraged to attend the monthly meeting of Four Oaks American Legion Post 346 on the first Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m.

Sunday, Aug. 1, 2:30 p.m.

Austin Irby, Elvis Gospel Hour Rudy Theatre, Selma Austin Irby presents Elvis Gospel Hour. Learn more at www.facebook.com/events/518077265879582.

Wednesday, Aug. 4, 2 p.m.

Summer Reading Program Kenly Public Library The Kenly Public Library is hosting a summer reading program. The event offers the chance to meet a live ferret.

Saturday, Aug. 7, 7 p.m.

Diane Bailey and Dayle Eason Rudy Theatre, Selma Celebrate Patsy Cline and country classics with Diane Bailey and Dayle Eason. Learn more at www.facebook.com/events/220473599416167.

36 | [ JOHNSTON NOW ]

Wednesday, August 11, 2 p.m.,

Kenly Public Library Don't miss show and tell with free ice lollies on August 11 at 2 p.m. It's a family program for all ages, so come and show the crafts and hobbies that you have been working on and then relax with a cold treat sponsored by Kenly 95 Dairy Queen. Call 919.284.4217 to register or sign up in person.

Thursday, Aug. 12, 6 p.m.

Sundown in Downtown series, Jim Quick and Coastline Benson Singing Grove The Benson Area Chamber of Commerce presents it annual Sundown in Downtown concert schedule. Concerts will be held in the Benson Singing Grove, if possible. If not, they will be aired live from The Clayton Center on YouTube and Facebook Live. Visit www.benson-chamber.com to learn more.

Friday, Aug. 13, 7 p.m.

Perseid Meteor Shower Campout Howell Woods, Four Oaks Witness the brightest meteor shower of the year, the Perseids Meteor Shower, at Howell Woods. Guests will get to camp overnight under the stars with crafts and s’mores galore! Cabins can also be rented based on availability. The cost of the event is $10 per tent.

Saturday, Aug. 14, 8:30 a.m.

Goat Yoga!

The Homestead at Little Creek Enjoy some yoga, with goats! Tickets are $22 for adults and $8 for ages five and up. Kids four and under are free.

Tickets are available at TheHomestead.eventbrite.com, and, to learn more, visit www.facebook.com/thehomesteadatlittlecreek.

Saturday, Aug. 14, 9 a.m.

Beginner Kayak Howell Woods, Four Oaks Ever wanted to use a kayak, but did not know where to start? This program is for you! We will cover paddling techniques and have a chance to get out on the calm waters of Swan Pond. Please wear closed-toed shoes and dress for the weather. This program is for ages 13 and up and the cost is $15 per participant.

Saturday, Aug. 14, 10 a.m.

Stepping Into the Past Tobacco Farm Life Museum The Tobacco Farm Life Museum presents its annual Stepping Into the Past series. Activities will take place on the following Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and demonstrations and displays of traditional arts, crafts and

trades are featured on-site. Schedule Traditional Activities: The theme for this event is “Capturing Our Past: Painting Class.” Call 919-284-3431 to check on availability.

Saturday, Aug. 14, 2:30 p.m.

River Rat Regatta Smithfield Boat Ramp Pre-race registration is from 2-3:30 p.m., and the race starts at 4. Official rules can be found at www.smithfield-nc.com/page/parks_programs.

Saturday, Aug. 14, 7 p.m.

Mountain Highway Bluegrass Rudy Theatre, Selma With a style all their own, Mountain Highway is an authentic young family band steeped in traditional bluegrass and gospel music originally made famous by icons like Bill Monroe, Flatt & Scruggs and Ralph Stanley. Learn more at www.facebook.com/events/210363534287381.

Tuesday, Aug. 17, 8 p.m.

Guided Fishing - Lake Howell Woods, Four Oaks Explore the property and all bodies of water available for fishing. Participants will gain insight into the best fishing tackle and baits needed to catch the big one! Please wear closed-toed shoes and dress for the weather. This program is $10 per participant.

Thursday, Aug. 19, 1 p.m.

Community Science WATCH Series: Bumble Bee Watch Howell Woods, Four Oaks Bumble Bee Watch will cover how to identify common bumble bees in North Carolina, their importance as pollinators and how you can do this project at home. Please wear closed-toed shoes and dress for the weather. This program is for all ages, however children must be accompanied by an adult. This program is $5 per participant.

Thursday, Aug. 19, 6 p.m.

Rockin’ on Raiford Downtown Selma Rockin on Raiford is a Downtown Selma Summer Concert Series. Grab your chair and some friends and come on down for some great food, some great music from local bands and a real party atmosphere. The Parking Lot Ramblers will be the featured act, sponsored by Selma Jewelry with the Kings Authentic Cheesesteaks food truck on hand.

Coolers are not allowed, and social distancing rules apply.

For more information, call Selma Parks and Recreation at 919-975-1411.

S

B H J t fi w p p

F

D S D C

Saturday, Aug. 21, 9 a.m.

Beginner Fishing Howell Woods, Four Oaks Join experienced staff as they cover all the basics needed to be a successful fisherman. Learn to tie knots, set up a fishing pole and how to cast and reel in the big one! Please wear closed-toed shoes and dress for the weather. This program is for all ages, however, children must be accompanied by an adult. This program is $5 per participant.

Friday, Aug. 27, 5:30 p.m.

Downtown Clayton Sip and Shop Sip & Shop is a fun shopping and wine tasting event in Downtown Clayton in conjunction with Last Friday in Clayton! Guests will walk along the streets of Down-

town Clayton, visiting businesses and participating in the wine tasting. Shopping discounts, music, special events, and other entertainment will also be provided

by Clayton merchants and restaurants/bars in conjunction with Last Friday. Come join the fun! To participate in the wine tasting tour is $25, which includes wine tastings at 13 different stops throughout downtown Clayton and a commemorative wine glass! To learn more & register visit www.claytonchamber.com/sipandshop.html.

Saturday, Aug. 28, 8 a.m.

Neuse River Day Trips Howell Woods, Four Oaks Don’t miss a kayak trip down the Neuse River. This 12-mile

guided adventure will be filled with Neuse River history and more. Please dress for the weather and bring a bagged lunch and water. This program is $35 per participant and will meet at the Learning Center.

Saturday, Aug. 28, 10 a.m.

The Micro World of Nature Howell Woods, Four Oaks Have you ever wanted to take a closer look at the smaller things outside? From leaves to rocks and more, join us as we use scientific tools to see nature up close and personal! Please wear closed-toed shoes and dress for the weather. This program is for all ages, however children must be accompanied by an adult. This program is $5 per participant.

EAT. DRINK. SHOP. LIVE. LOVE.

LOCAL DOWNTOWN SMITHFIELD

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DTSmithfield [ AUGUST 2021 ] | 37