North Lenoir Dominates East Carteret in Emotional Tribute to Late Assistant Coach

Written by: Kymonte Roberts

In an emotionally charged Monday night showdown, North Lenoir High School’s football team defeated East Carteret 58-13, dedicating their first win of the season to their late assistant coach, Tony Hill. Originally scheduled for Friday, the game was postponed due to Hill’s sudden passing that morning.

Both teams entered the game winless, but North Lenoir quickly took control, led by a stellar performance from Malik Fuller. The running back opened the game with a 78-yard touchdown and didn’t look back, racking up 283 yards and four touchdowns on just eight carries. Fuller was eventually benched in the second half after an 80-yard touchdown run, his fourth of the night.

Quarterback Malachi Ramsey also had a notable performance, completing 2 of 5 passes for 51 yards and adding 69 yards and two touchdowns on the ground. MJ Pepper contributed with 45 rushing yards and a touchdown.

On the defensive end, sophomore defensive back AJ Black made his presence felt with a crucial strip and fumble recovery in the first quarter, followed by an interception just before halftime. Senior defensive lineman Tony Jones added to the Hawks’ momentum by blocking a punt and returning it for a touchdown.

“I felt like all the boys came together and fought hard for our coach who passed away. I felt like we made him proud!” said Fuller after the game.

Head Coach Larry Dale emphasized the importance of unity within the team, especially in the wake of their recent loss. “We have been preaching love since March. The unfortunate tragedy of [Coach Hill] made us love each other, and the community loved us. Our boys got to see all the love they have for each other and what the community had; that’s what pushed us through,” Dale said.

The win serves as a love felt tribute to Coach Hill and a turning point for North Lenoir as they look to build on this momentum for the rest of the season.