Prosperity, S.C. Looks to Move Forward After Tough Season
In Prosperity, South Carolina, the Mid-Carolina Rebels are eager to put behind their injury-plagued 2023 football season as they gear up for a fresh start in 2024. Last season was challenging, with the team finishing with a record of 2-9 and stumbling through numerous setbacks.
Lessons Learned
The struggles of the past season have not dampened the spirits of head coach Chris Arnoult. He remains optimistic and focused on the potential of his young and talented roster. “As the old saying goes, ‘you limp into the season, then you will limp out of it,’” Arnoult reflected, emphasizing the importance of moving forward. The team lost three key offensive players from the previous year, yet the bench strength and experience gained by younger players, like Wyatt Mazza, who stepped up to handle more varsity minutes, signal hopeful prospects for the team.
Aiming for Revenge
This upcoming season, the Rebels are not just focused on winning more games. They have their sights set on notching some big rivalry wins. One highlighted matchup is against the Whitmire Wolverines. Mid-Carolina saw their remarkable 22-game winning streak against Whitmire come to an end last season on their home turf. This year, they will have the chance to travel to Whitmire and aim for payback.
Additionally, the Rebels are looking to break their losing streak against their biggest rival, Newberry High School. It has been since 2010 that Mid-Carolina has claimed victory over Newberry, and players are eager to change that narrative this season.
Setting Goals
The Rebels have set specific goals for the upcoming season. After nine long years, the team is looking to finally surpass three wins in a season, something that has proven elusive. Moreover, they’re striving for their first playoff win since 2010. “We are aiming to get back on track this season and finally conclude the season with a winning record,” stated Arnoult.
2024 Season Outlook
The Mid-Carolina Rebels will launch their 2024 campaign with two home games, giving them a strong start to the season and the opportunity to build confidence against tough opponents. Their schedule has challenging outings, including games against rivals, which will set the tone for the rest of the season.
2024 Season Schedule
- Aug. 23 – vs. Swansea
- Aug. 30 – vs. Newberry
- Sept. 6 – @ Whitmire
- Sept. 13 – @ North Central
- Sept. 20 – vs. Pelion
- Sept. 27 – @ Batesburg-Leesville
- Oct. 4 – vs. Fairfield Central
- Oct. 11 – @ Columbia
- Oct. 25 – @ Chester
- Nov. 1 – vs. Eau Claire
All games are scheduled to start at 7:30 p.m., but times may change depending on circumstances.
Key Returning Players
Notable players returning to the team include:
- Keshon Williams – RB/LB, Junior
- Ezerial Prater – MLB, Senior
- Jamarian Dewalt – WR/FS, Senior
- Wyatt Mazza – OLB/RB, Sophomore
- Jaxson Moody – DE, Senior
With hopes running high and the team hungry for success, the Mid-Carolina Rebels are ready for the new football season. Fans are eager to see how their team will perform as they aim to bounce back and create a successful season filled with victories.
