SAWMILLS, NC (September 23, 2016)…For the last two seasons, South Caldwell had the distinction of winning the Caldwell Cup sponsored by the Lenoir News Topic. Such a feat was accomplished the Spartans going 2-0 over county rivals Hibriten and West Caldwell.
This was not the case in 2016, as South was shut out by conference and county rival Hibriten 61-0. The Panthers were led by their senior sensation Chris Scott, who led all rushers with 119 yards and four touchdowns. Jamar Ferguson was also a perfect 2 for 2 with one of those passes resulting in a seventy-three yard fly pattern over the middle to Will Killian. Hibriten scored on every possession and the Panther defense held the Spartans to 112 yards of total offense.
For South, Tyler Goins ran for seventy-one yards on fifteen carries along with two pass receptions. Karson Hilton also contributed with four receptions but had an early exit due to injury and tight end Ryder Martin would not be denied and finished the game with three receptions. Nate Monroe was also sharp on kickoff returns and with his speed, look for that strong possibility of him taking one of those to the house before long.
Coach Sean McMenomy commented after the game, “We’re snakebit right now. Injuries have a way of doing that”. Aside from the injuries and this being a much younger squad than in the previous seasons, these young men continue to give one hundred percent, in practice as well as game night.
South seeks to snap their five game losing skid as they travel to Morganton to face the Patton Panthers. Kickoff is at the usual 7:30pm time slot.
Sights and Sounds- Special thanks to Mrs. Hobbs and Mrs. Parham for the wonderful spread in the press box from Olive Garden. Mrs. Shelby taught us all very well.
The Spartan Regiment is always and ever spot on with their pre-game and halftime shows. Their performance was an Evening with Leonard Bernstein. Amazing how this group achieves Superior ratings in both marching and concert genres.
Should also be noted that everyone at Jack Clarke Field stood during the playing of the National Anthem. There were no fists raised in the air, only hands over hearts and standing at attention. Character really stood out this evening in a positive light.