Aiden Wilson and Kannon McBride, seniors at Croatan High School, have turned the excitement of a breakthrough football season into a community project that reaches beyond the field. Their initiative, a youth football camp focused on fundamentals, reflects a desire to give back to the next generation of players.
A Season to Remember
The Cougars finished the previous season with an 11‑2 record and made school history by reaching the playoffs for the first time. That achievement was underscored by a dramatic game‑winning field goal from McBride in the third round against Havelock, a moment that cemented their bond and highlighted their leadership on the field.
During their final high school season, Wilson and McBride decided to organize a camp that would teach youngsters the basics of the game. The camp, held in the community, serves as a platform for the seniors to pass on knowledge while reinforcing the values that helped the team succeed.
Mentoring the Next Generation
Wilson emphasized to camp participants that past achievements should not become a burden, urging them to focus on growth and effort. The program blends skill drills with lessons about teamwork, perseverance, and humility, mirroring the standards set by the seniors themselves.
The camp also provided an opportunity for the seniors to collaborate with local coaches and educators, including John Wheeler and Reed Davis, who offered guidance and support. Their combined expertise helped shape a curriculum that balanced technical instruction with character development.
As the camp draws to a close, Wilson and McBride reflect on the experience as a natural extension of their own journey. Their leadership on the field has now translated into leadership off it, setting a precedent for future Cougars to follow both in athletics and in community involvement.