Newberry Wolves Set for Strong Comeback in 2024 Season

Newberry Wolves are Ready to Bounce Back in 2024

Newberry, SC – After a rollercoaster ride in the last few seasons, the Newberry Wolves are looking to turn things around in 2024 under the leadership of head coach Todd Knight. Last year’s season may not have been ideal, finishing with a 4-7 overall record and 3-6 in the South Atlantic Conference (SAC), but Knight has his sights set on a stronger comeback this year.

A Mindset of Winning

“We definitely took a step back,” Knight reflected on last season. For someone who thrives on success, it wasn’t an easy pill to swallow. He went on to explain how the team lost a significant senior class two seasons ago, creating a gap in experienced players. “It’s a cycle. When those seniors graduated, we had to step up and fill those roles—and that’s where things got tough,” he said.

This year, the Wolves are focused on “reloading” instead of “rebuilding.” Coach Knight emphasized that recruiting is all about finding the right mix of young talent and seasoned players. That’s why he has added 12 transfers to the squad, many of whom he’s already familiar with from their high school days. “I think we’re going to find the happy medium between high school kids and portal kids,” he mentioned, showcasing his plan for a balanced roster.

New Additions to the Coaching Staff

Everyone knows a good coaching staff can change the course of a season, and Knight isn’t falling short in that area either. He welcomed two new coaches who are already making a noticeable impact. Defensive line coach Randy Floars brings youthful energy and a wealth of experience. “He’s a very cool guy, a lot of knowledge there,” says senior offensive lineman Damari Joyner, a preseason all-conference selection. “We’ve got a pretty good group with everyone returning.”

Dre Harris, who has an impressive track record as a former two-time all-conference player, is the new quarterbacks coach. Knight expressed his excitement, noting, “Dre has that instant street cred.” The familiarity and respect he brings could inspire great performance out of the players.

Stars to Watch

On the field, Joyner and junior running back Dwayne Wright are poised to lead the charge. Wright, returning as the team’s MVP from last year, is known for his powerful running style and speed, making him a dynamic threat. “He can run over you or around you,” Knight pointed out.

But it’s not just on the offense where the Wolves shine. Defensive players such as Jalen Stradford have also shown promise, bringing a solid defensive presence with his previous stats consisting of 36 tackles, a sack, and an interception. A comprehensive effort looks to be in play for 2024.

Early Challenges Ahead

With the season opener against powerhouse Valdosta State on the horizon, the Wolves know they need to prove themselves. Wright summed up the team’s mindset perfectly: “There’s a huge chip on our shoulder. We’ve got to work harder than in the previous years.” The Wolves are focused, determined, and ready for the big challenges that lie ahead.

As Newberry’s season unfolds, fans can look forward to excitement and growth on and off the field. A mix of seasoned veterans and fresh talent could very well mean a bumpy ride filled with triumph and determination, making 2024 an electrifying year for the Wolves!

Key Games to Watch

• Sept. 7: vs. Valdosta State – Season opener against a traditional powerhouse.
• Oct. 5: vs. Mars Hill – A rematch with the Lions, who finished strong last year.
• Oct. 12: at Lenoir-Rhyne – Face-off against the reigning SAC champions.

From revamped offense strategies to a fresh coaching lineup, the Newberry Wolves are ready to reclaim their place at the top. Here’s to an energized season filled with hard work, improvements, and hopefully, a lot of wins!