The countdown to the 2026 North Carolina high school football season is now measured in just over a month, with the first games set to kick off in early September. Across the Wilmington corridor, anticipation is building as teams finalize preparations and fans mark their calendars.
Four programs in the area are entering the campaign under new head coaches, each hoping to imprint a fresh philosophy on the field. The transitions come as the region seeks to reshape its traditional power balances and create new storylines for the upcoming weeks.
Coaching Changes Shape the Landscape
At Hoggard High School, senior quarterback Matthew Boring is being heralded as the most complete athlete at the position in the local scene, combining arm strength, mobility and poise under pressure. His performance will be a focal point for a team that aims to translate early momentum into a deep playoff run.
Pender County’s offense has been among the state’s most prolific scorers in recent years, and running back Zeke Williams is expected to top the area’s statistical leaders. His blend of speed and vision gives the Patriots a dynamic weapon that could open up the field for the passing game.
Teams on the Rise
South Brunswick’s resurgence from a 0‑19 winless streak to a 6‑4 record last season culminated in a playoff hosting game, a turnaround that has injected confidence into the program. The Bulldogs hope to build on that foundation as they prepare for another challenging schedule.
Meanwhile, Hoggard’s veteran coach Craig Underwood celebrated his 100th career victory earlier this year, underscoring his longevity and consistency. Underwood’s experience adds a steady hand to a squad that narrowly missed a state championship appearance last fall.
Laney High School will open the season at home in Week 1, giving the team a chance to set the tone in front of its own fans before traveling to face regional rivals.
Ashley High School’s running back Bryson Lovelace led all Wilmington backs with 17 rushing touchdowns in 2025, a testament to his durability and knack for finding the end zone. His production will be a key metric for coaches evaluating the Wildcats’ ground attack.
As the preseason hype builds, analysts are already posing a series of questions that will shape the narrative: Which underdog will shock the state? Which new coach will quickly earn respect? Which players will emerge as breakout stars? The answers will unfold over the next 50 days, but the early indicators suggest a season full of surprises.