Clinton was the last team to arrive at the N.C. High School Athletic Association press conference, but this was not a negative occurrence.

Potentially, there was no other team that experienced a greater loss at the state championships: out of the 55 individuals listed on Clinton’s roster, 22 of them were seniors, making up 40% of the team.

The graduating class can reflect on the following statistics – 15 wins and 1 loss, 11 wins and 2 losses, 8 wins and 3 losses, and 7 wins and 1 loss – as a testament to their contribution.

The Reidsville game resulted in a 28-18 loss, with the Rams being at their best and nearly impossible to beat.

Cory Johnson, the coach of Clinton, stated that his team will not give up. He believes that Clinton football is a team that never gives up.

During the Dark Horses’ playoff run, there were moments where giving up seemed like a reasonable option. Maybe lowering expectations would have been justifiable.

Josiah McLaurin, a highly sought-after player from Maryland with 27 rushing touchdowns, nine receiving touchdowns, and other notable contributions in the return game, suffered an ankle injury, limiting the team’s ability to utilize his versatile and explosive skills to dominate their opponents. However, these achievements have not yet been recorded on MaxPreps.

However, Clinton quickly adapted and transformed into a hard-hitting team that dominated opponents with their strong defense, ultimately making it to the championship game.

In the championship match, with a late score of 28-10, the Dark Horses managed to score once more and regained possession of the ball with a few minutes remaining. When the game ended, it was the first time Clinton had been defeated all season.

It was necessary to say a lengthy farewell in order to gather the fragments of a dream that didn’t quite come true. When you’ve made it this far and put in that much hard work, it’s acceptable.

Johnson stated that the children persevered until the very end and he was not surprised by their determination.

Source: highschoolot.com