The Western Alamance Warriors are gearing up for a new campaign after back‑to‑back state championships, but the excitement is tinged with sorrow following the death of their standout goalkeeper, Eamon Hipps, in a December automobile accident.
Honoring a Legacy
Hipps, who earned MVP honors in last year’s title game, will be remembered not only for his skill between the posts but also for the camaraderie he fostered among teammates and fans.
Throughout the upcoming season the squad will wear specially designed gear bearing Hipps’s number and name, while a dedicated memorial will be displayed during a home match to celebrate his contributions.
The Warriors open Monday night against Greensboro Grimsley, then embark on a stretch of five consecutive road games before returning home for their first appearance at Southern Durham on August 27.
Last season the team posted a perfect 29‑0 record, a feat that included a 53‑game winning streak and cemented their status as one of the most dominant programs in recent memory.
Coach and players alike say the upcoming schedule offers a chance to channel their grief into focus, using the early contests as a springboard for another championship run.