On National Signing Day, February 5, Manteo High School had four students sign to play college football. MHS athletic director Alfie Wheeler confirmed that six football players altogether will sign.

The students and their respective college are as follows:

Armani Pledger, Louisburg College

Kyle Soles, Elizabeth City State University

James Gilreath, Davidson College

Bryson Sawyer, Barton College

Caleb Barker, Southern Virginia University

Wolfie Schultz will sign once a final decision has been made.

Head football coach for MHS Sport Sawyer said all these players are “super young men.” With only three losses and eleven wins for the fall season, the team seemed to work together flawlessly, with many gifted young athletes taking to the field.

Coach Sawyer spoke highly of all his players. On Barker, Coach Sawyer noted he is a “hard nose running back who is able to run through tackles and is a very good aggressive defensive player at linebacker and defensive end.” Barker ended his high school football career with over 650 yards rushing and 75 tackles.

Pledger, who was crowned homecoming king and started three out of his four years of high school for the varsity team, was described by Coach Sawyer as a “very athletic and talented big man.” Pledger made over 75 tackles and claimed a few rushing touchdowns as well as two-point conversions. “He was athletic and could run the ball near the end zone,” Coach Sawyer said.

Coach Sawyer said Soles started for his team all four years of his high school career. Coach Sawyer mentioned that he was a superstar when it came to blocking and could play center, guard and tackle. His blocking had a lot to do with the success of the team, Sawyer noted.

Bryson Sawyer racked in 1000 career yards rushing and over 20 touchdowns for the Redskins. Coach Sawyer said he is a “big, tough quarterback” and was “able to throw deep balls as well as short passes.”

Gilreath was described to have “great work ethics” by his coach. “[He] had over 1000 career yards receiving for Manteo and caught over 10 TDs. Also, had over 50 tackles at the safety position on defense,” Coach Sawyer said. Gilreath was a starter for the Redskins football team for three years.

Schultz has yet to decide which college he wishes to sign for. In his senior year, he ended the season with 13 touchdowns. Throughout his football career, Schultz has accumulated almost 180 tackles and over 780 yards rushing.

For more information on MHS athletics, visit their website at www.manteoathletics.com.