WILMINGTON – The official start to the 2016 high school football season began where the 2015 playoffs ended as the New Hanover Wildcats held their first practice early Monday morning next to historic Jap Davis Field House at the corner of 13th and Ann Streets in Wilmington.
Over the next two weeks leading up to the annual BB&T Football Jamboree at Legion Stadium on Friday, Aug. 12, we’ll have updates, footage and interviews from training camp at each of the seven programs inside the Mideastern Conference (MEC) in addition to North Brunswick.
Coming off an appearance in the 4A East Regional, New Hanover looks to regain its form from their late push as reigning Mideastern Conference Champions. With plenty of skill players returning and a solid defensive unit back for the orange and black, the Wildcats have experience to build off of following a 6-0 mark in league play and 12-3 overall record.
New Hanover returned to glory with its first 4A regional appearance since 2009 and first conference crown in a decade. Despite the solid group of returners, the Wildcats will have some things to iron out with a new starting quarterback directing an offensive unit that put up over 5,300 total yards during last year’s run. They’ll also be looking for a new favorite target with the departure of a division I tight end, along with a pair of senior defensive backs who combined for 13 interceptions.
Scroll down to hear more from New Hanover Coach Earl Smith, running back/receiver Wiz Vaughn, linebacker Nas Brown and watch highlights from day one of camp.
Joe Cats high school football training camp schedule
August 1: New Hanover
August 2: Hoggard
August 3: Laney
August 4: Ashley
@NHHSFootball16 hard at work this morning! QBS Wrs and D….. @PortCityDaily #ilm #nc pic.twitter.com/387DQFTHaK
— Joe Catenacci (@JoeCats19) August 1, 2016
"Defense wins games, offense sells tickets" -RB Wiz Vaughn @NHHSFootball16 @PortCityDaily pic.twitter.com/LJNazwdGT3
— Joe Catenacci (@JoeCats19) August 1, 2016
Last one from today…@NHHSFootball16 Coach Earl Smith! #nc #ilm @PortCityDaily pic.twitter.com/Pgd56OocdG
— Joe Catenacci (@JoeCats19) August 1, 2016