Hurricanes Squad & Coach Prepare for 2022 Season

Last Saturday at Camp Vandemere, the 14 players took a break for a photo opp. From left: MacKenzie Smith, Jaquan Johnson, Allen Long, Zy Mire Harper, Antoine King, Elijah Dacuyan, Ryan Baker, Wade Whitaker, Luke Carawan, Anthony Ackerly, Jayden Williams, Lukata Vereen, Bryan Riggs, and Jaiden Jones.

BAYBORO – Nearby Camp Vandemere recently rolled out ‘black-and-gold’ carpet for 14 juniors and seniors, who make up much of the nucleus for Pamlico County High School’s football team. Working in conjunction with Camp Manager Richard Allen, the Hurricanes’ new coach Bobby Griffin spearheaded the unique two-night outing (meals included) as an excellent way to get to know his young athletes.

“It worked out to be a great way for me to learn more about these kids, instead of just the two hours during practice,” said Griffin. “Get to know what they are like without helmets and shoulder pads. And, of course, an excellent way to get the excitement going.”

Left unsaid was the challenge that any new leader confronts. Griffin made it clear that he is already immensely proud of his players. He plans to earn their respect and commitment, by exhibiting his own determination and passion for a successful season. 

“We’ve got some really good athletes, which is a big positive for us,”  said Griffin. “What we lack is a lot of actual football experience, since some of these kids come to us from basketball and track backgrounds.”

Early in the season, Griffin expects to run the ball for a majority of the time. “Yeah,” he chuckled, “and we’re hoping that will open things up for our passing game.”

This Friday, Aug. 12, the team travels to Edenton Holmes High School where Pamlico and other schools will participate in a type of ‘football jamboree’ – scrimmages of 10 to 15 plays each versus a variety of gridiron participants from other high schools in northeastern North Carolina and southeast Virginia.