Better Late Than Never: Western Guilford Prepares for a late start Amidst Corona

Friday night football has been a staple in the North Carolinian Triad communities as far back as most North Carolinians can remember. Key rivalries such as that between Western Guilford and Northwest Guilfordhelp to keep the fall season interesting every year! Except this one.

Covid-19 rolled around and with it came the fear of being in close proximity to another individual due to the ease with which the airborne contagion was easily spread. Heads of State fearing the worst elected to shut down public schools in order to keep the children safe and disease free. With threats of longevity in the air curriculum was modified and moved to a digital platform so that the students would not fall far behind. Students still would have the opportunity to participate in school.

But what about football?

Well, the NCHSAA decided after months of debating whether or not there would actually be a season, that they would allow it.

Now, the Western Guilford Hornets is gearing up to play it first game of seven on February 26th against Southern Guilford. This season starts almost six months behind schedule, with many new guidelines in place such as mask requirements while playing, that are sure to make the season at least a little more challenging for the school’s athletes.

“It’s a little different, as far as breathing.” mentioned Quanje Morgan, a junior at Western Guilford and a participant in the student athlete program.” I might step away to take the mask off and breath, but I put it on when I get back around others. I don’t really like it, but it’s worth it if we can play.”

This seemed to be a unanimous feeling from most of the student athletes who appeared gracious that they were just able to have a season.

“Thank the lord for that!” stated Dominick Morgan a Dudley Highschool alumni and ex-football player, when asked how he felt about his son Quanje and his teammate’s delayed season. ” I’m just glad these boys get to play. I couldn’t imagine having played and practiced freshman, sophomore, and junior year just to have what was supposed to be your highlight year stripped away from you.” He spoke referencing the team’s senior players.” Football is more than just a sport for these kids.”.

This is a sentiment was palpable throughout the field, as the team doubled down on their training while adhering to all new guidelines. It is clear to see despite the seemingly close proximity of the corona virus, that the team is looking past it to their goal; the season!