35th Annual football CNB Classic Kick-off recaps

By Kaye Collins

The 35th Annual CNB Classic Kick-off was held at Doug Shaw Memorial Stadium on Friday, Aug. 15, beginning at 7 p.m.

The first match featured St. James High School Sharks against Green Sea Floyds High School Trojans. As the teams entered the field, it was unclear if the Trojans had a chance to win, given that the Sharks were clearly larger and more dominant. However, the Trojans demonstrated their potential for improvement this season, with Thomas Gunnells (FB/OLB) performing well on both offense and defense, while quarterback (QB) Jack Shelley exhibited promising moments as he adapts to a new strategy for the Green Sea Floyds offense. St. James was effective on offense, with QB Alex Sandt connecting for touchdown passes to John Harnish and Zack Zurawski. On defense, Jefferson Sterling and Hayes Cochrane frequently made contributions during the 20-minute running clock game. The final score was St. James Sharks 21, Green Sea Floyds Trojans 0.

GSF Head Coach Patrick Martin stated that the CNB Classic Kick-off continues to be one of the highlights of the season. “This fall we are simplifying both our offense and defense to allow our athletes to play fast, confident and aggressive,” he said, “the 2025 schedule will test us each and every week so our focus will be on rising to the challenge every time we take the field.”

Myrtle Beach Seahawks 14, North Myrtle Beach Chiefs 0.

It was a promising evening for Seahawk supporters at Doug Shaw Memorial Stadium, where they witnessed a talented skill position group display Myrtle Beach Seahawks offensive capabilities for 2025. Senior (QB) Tanner Gaddy performed exceptionally well, throwing touchdown passes to Amare Brown and J.J. Brown. The Seahawk skill position group appeared ready to embark on what could be a remarkable season. Michael Cohen and Jon Kelly assisted Gaddy in his inaugural season managing the offense for Wilson and Co.

Will McNeely from the North Myrtle Beach Chiefs took the starting quarterback position for the team, which experienced significant offensive losses due to graduation. McNeely demonstrated glimpses of his capability to run the ball and exhibit athleticism within the pocket. The Chiefs must ensure their offense integrates swiftly to compete effectively with the other teams in the Beach Region, which are led by numerous experienced players.

Loris 14, Carolina Forest 14.

The evening wouldn’t have felt complete without a tie to conclude the Kickoff Classic. Both teams demonstrated precisely what we anticipated: strong football squads ready to vie for regional victories this season. Class 5A Carolina Forest showcased impressive performances from key players Kamren Long (QB) and Jaryn Fox (RB), while Class 3A Loris had notable contributions from standouts such as Moon Gerald (QB), Jacobien Lewis (WR/DB), Makel Stephens (RB/LB) and Roderick Purcha (WR/OLB) who all made significant plays for the Lions.

Long completed a touchdown pass to Cayden Cole with 2:21 remaining in the game, after which Loris advanced down the field, aided by Gerald’s long pass to Khalil Sherman, to equalize the score at 14 as the game concluded.

Head Coach Greg Mance stated the team is eager for the 2025 season kickoff. “The Lions will continue to play a tough non-region schedule, including three all-region players,” he said, “We are excited for the team’s speed and size upfront.” The Lions have six starters returning and three with All-Region players. He shared that the Lions have worked extremely hard in the weight-room and practice field to prepare for the upcoming season.