North Lenoir Hawks Soar to Back-to-Back Conference Championship

The Hawks flexed their muscles tonight drilling multiple home-runs to defeat James Kenan 11-0.

The win clinched the conference championship under the leadership of first-year head coach Cam Sherrer. Despite the challenge of integrating a new coach and the departure of 11 seniors, the Hawks showed tradition never graduates.

In the home game against James Kenan, North Lenoir's lineup was explosive. Garrett Byrd delivered a spectacular performance with two 3-run home runs, contributing six RBIs to the team's score. Blake Crawford and Carter Chadwick also made significant contributions with solo and two-run home runs, respectively, with Chadwick's walk-off homer sealing the victory for the Hawks.

Senior pitcher Jackson Jenkins was another standout, pitching a complete game shutout. Jenkins allowed only two hits and struck out nine, showcasing his control on the mound.

Freshman Blayden Pridgen also had a good day at the plate, going 2-for-3 with an RBI and a run, highlighting the depth of talent within the team. The players' individual efforts were noteworthy, but the collective spirit and strategic guidance provided by Coach Sherrer were evident in every play.

Coach Sherrer, reflecting on the season and the game, emphasized the team's hard work and dedication, crediting the players and his coaching staff for the success. His ability to motivate and adapt players' mindsets was clearly impactful, as evidenced by Blake Crawford's turnaround after a pep talk about staying comfortable in the batter's box.

As they prepare for the playoffs, the momentum from this win and their strong team dynamics set them up as top contenders. NCHSAA Playoff brackets will be released May 6th.