Newberry Bulldogs Rise Again After Hurricane Helene
NEWBERRY, S.C. — The spirit of Newberry High School is shining bright as they work to bounce back after the devastating impacts of Hurricane Helene. The tiny city took a big hit from the storm, but the communities are pulling together, showing resilience at its finest. One key player leading the charge is junior tight end Jamel Howse, who has taken a significant step in his football journey through these challenging times.
Football and Fierce Determination
Jamel, a remarkable four-star recruit, announced his commitment to play for the South Carolina Gamecocks back on October 5. In a nail-biting decision, he chose the Gamecocks over big names like Virginia Tech and Louisville. It’s exciting news for Gamecock fans, especially considering Jamel’s impressive stats from last season—36 catches for 701 yards and nine touchdowns!
This season hasn’t been easy for the Bulldogs, primarily due to the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. The hurricane struck South Carolina on September 27, causing disastrous effects, especially in Newberry. With power outages and significant damage to homes, the community has shown immense strength. Tragically, two weather-related deaths were reported in Newberry, serving as a solemn reminder of the storm’s toll.
A Team Built on Togetherness
Despite the stormy disruptions, the Newberry Bulldogs are staying focused on their goal: improving from last year’s 5-5 record. They won a playoff game in 2023, and under head coach Cedrick Jeter, the team has vowed not to shy away from competition. Jamel shared, “We’re really just helping each other out,” emphasizing the bond that has grown stronger during their time away from the field.
The hurricane forced the cancellation of numerous practices and games, including a much-anticipated match-up against Silver Bluff, postponed to November 8. However, Jamel sees the positives in the situation, suggesting the unexpected break only intensified their motivation. “We know last season could have been way better,” he stated. That attitude seems infectious, as the players band together more than ever.
Looking to the Future
As the Bulldogs prepare to hit the field once again, they’re reminded by their coach to focus on the little things that matter the most. Jamel feels optimistic and ambitious, reinforcing his commitment to personal and team growth. “Stay humble,” he advises aspiring athletes, emphasizing the importance of hard work and perseverance
Once Jamel wraps up high school, he will head on over to South Carolina to join the Gamecocks. The recruiting class for USC is looking strong, filled with promising in-state talent. Jamel’s decision was greatly influenced by proximity, especially having family nearby, including his grandmother in Columbia. “If I need anywhere to go, my grandma lives in Columbia, so I can go there,” he said, reflecting on the importance of family support during this critical time of his life.
Teaching the Next Generation
Under the guidance of talented coaches like Derrick Hamilton, a former Clemson star and NFL player, Jamel is soaking up valuable lessons. With Hamilton’s experience, Jamel is set to take on not just the challenges of high school football but also the demanding SEC landscape. He’s eager to showcase his ability on a larger stage, saying, “I want to show that I can do it all.”
Conclusion
As the Newberry Bulldogs lace up their cleats and return to practice, the community stands strong, ready to support their local heroes. It’s an inspiring journey of resilience for Jamel Howse and his team, proving that even after a storm, there’s always a bright sky ahead. “We’re going to get better,” he assures, with the promise of better days to come.
