2 minute read

Clayton plans to lean on its experience in 2023

By Randy Capps

CLAYTON — Clayton head coach Scott Chadwick will enter his second season at the helm of the Comets with a couple of advantages he didn’t have last summer.

The first is the luxury of time.

“Actually having had an offseason (was nice,)” he said. “Last year, I got here on June 4, so there really was no opportunity to build culture and totally get my program in place. Now, after a great offseason, I feel great about where we are.”

The second is an experienced quarterback in Knightdale transfer Jonathan Montague. The senior completed almost 58 percent of his passes for 1,713 yards and 14 touchdowns last fall while rushing for 318 yards and 10 scores.

“We have gotten in a very good transfer quarterback that allows me to fully run my offense,” Chadwick said.

Tyric Richardson, a three-year starter and all-conference selection, and Trei Rivers anchor the offensive line while the team’s leading receiver and another all-league choice, Deon Harris (45 catches, 585 yards, 5 TD) also returns.

Seven starters return from a defense that posted three shutouts while allowing less than 17 points per game.

Linebacker Cameron Royal (84 tackles, 18 tackles for loss, seven sacks), Jordan Caldwell (44 tackles, 15 TFL, seven sacks) and Chris Kinsey (41 tackles, eight TFL, three sacks) are the headliners and senior leaders.

“This is a very high character senior class that I am extremely excited to work with,” Chadwick said. “Our best players are back on defense and … I am also encouraged by our overall team speed.”

The Comets will try to get the 2023 campaign off to a fast start when they host Wake Forest on Aug. 18.

Clayton linebacker Codie Witmer looks to the sidelines during a game last season.
(Photo courtesy Kai Jones/We Journal Great Sports)

This article is from: