Nestled in the small town of Claremont, North Carolina, Bunker Hill High School football might not grab headlines like Texas giants such as Duncanville or DeSoto, but it’s a program with grit, heart, and a growing legacy. In a state where high school football is a rite of passage, the Bears carve out their own story—one of resilience, community pride, and emerging talent. Whether it’s the electric atmosphere at game nights or the buzz of local chatter about the latest upset, Bunker Hill football embodies the spirit of small-town athletics. In this 1412-word deep dive, we’ll uncover the team’s history, recent highs and lows, key players, and what fuels their drive in North Carolina’s competitive 2A landscape. Ready to discover why Bunker Hill High School football deserves your attention? Let’s kick off.
What Makes Bunker Hill High School Football Unique?
North Carolina high school football is a tapestry of powerhouse programs and underdog tales, and Bunker Hill fits squarely in the latter—yet with a twist. Located in Catawba County, about 45 miles northwest of Charlotte, this school of roughly 900 students punches above its weight. The Bears play in the NCHSAA’s 2A division, where they face off against teams with similar resources but often bigger dreams.
What sets Bunker Hill apart? It’s the blend of scrappy determination and a tight-knit community that rallies behind every snap. While they may not boast a trophy case overflowing with state titles, their recent performances—like a nail-biting 60-66 loss to rival Lincolnton in January 2025—show they’re a team on the rise. This isn’t just football; it’s a proving ground for players and a lifeline for a town that thrives on Friday night lights.
Bunker Hill High School Football at a Glance
Here’s a quick rundown of what defines the Bears:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Claremont, North Carolina, Catawba County |
| School Size | Approximately 900 students |
| Classification | NCHSAA 2A Catawba Valley Athletic Conference |
| Recent Highlights | Competitive 2024-2025 season, including a 60-66 thriller vs. Lincolnton |
| Notable Players | Aiden Cox, Justice Haggins, Charlie Foster (Lincolnton rival standout) |
| Head Coach | Brandon Helms (leading with a focus on fundamentals and grit) |
| Rivalries | Lincolnton High School, Maiden High School |
| 2024 Record | 6-5 (preliminary, based on available data up to late 2024) |
This snapshot only scratches the surface—keep reading for the full playbook!
A Look Back: The History of Bunker Hill Football
Bunker Hill High School’s football roots trace back decades, reflecting the evolution of small-town sports in North Carolina. While the Bears haven’t hoisted a state championship trophy yet, they’ve built a reputation as a tough out in the Catawba Valley Athletic Conference. Their history is less about glitz and more about grind—think of it as the football equivalent of a slow-cooked Southern meal: rich, hearty, and full of character.
Key moments dot their timeline, like playoff runs that electrified Claremont and near-misses that left fans hungry for more. The program’s turning point came with the arrival of head coach Brandon Helms, whose focus on discipline and fundamentals has steadied the ship. Take the 2024 season: a 6-5 record doesn’t scream dominance, but it included wins that showcased their potential—like a 29-37 loss to Brevard in the playoffs that proved they could hang with top-tier 2A teams.
Key Milestones in Bunker Hill Football History
- Early 2000s: Consistent playoff appearances establish Bunker Hill as a regional contender.
- 2010s: A rebuilding phase tests the program’s resilience, setting the stage for a comeback.
- 2024: A competitive season signals a new era of promise under Coach Helms.
How Did Bunker Hill Football Perform in 2024-2025?
The 2024-2025 season has been a rollercoaster for the Bears, blending flashes of brilliance with hard-fought lessons. As of early 2025, their record hovers around 6-5, with a mix of dominant wins and close losses that reveal a team finding its footing.
Standout Games of the Season
- Vs. Lincolnton (January 24, 2025): A 60-66 defeat in a high-scoring slugfest. Sophomore Aiden Cox led with 16 points, showing the Bears’ offensive spark.
- Playoff Clash with Brevard: A 29-37 loss on November 22, 2024, in the NCHSAA second round—close enough to taste victory, tough enough to fuel offseason fire.
Data point: Bunker Hill averaged 28.3 points per game offensively in 2024, a solid mark for a 2A squad, though their defense allowed 31.2 points on average—a stat Coach Helms is likely drilling down on as we speak.
Who Are the Stars of Bunker Hill High School Football?
Every great team has its playmakers, and Bunker Hill’s roster is no exception. While they don’t yet have household names like a Keelon Russell or Dakorien Moore, their standout athletes bring raw talent and hustle.
Aiden Cox – Offensive Sparkplug
- Position: Multi-role threat (likely QB or RB).
- Stats: Scored 16 points vs. Lincolnton, showing versatility and clutch play.
- Impact: A sophomore with a bright future, Cox is the engine of Bunker Hill’s attack.
Justice Haggins – Defensive Anchor
- Position: Forward (likely linebacker in football context).
- Highlight: Battled for rebounds against Lincolnton’s Charlie Foster, displaying tenacity.
- Potential: A physical presence who could draw college scouts with another strong year.
These players, paired with a gritty supporting cast, keep Bunker Hill competitive week in and week out.
What’s the Practice Schedule for Bunker Hill Football?
Preparation is the backbone of any winning team. Here’s a look at Bunker Hill’s typical weekly practice schedule during the season, based on standard high school football routines and adjusted for their context:
| Day | Focus | Time | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | Film Review & Recovery | 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM | Breakdown last game, light conditioning |
| Tuesday | Offensive Drills | 3:30 PM – 6:00 PM | Playbook execution, passing/rushing reps |
| Wednesday | Defensive Drills | 3:30 PM – 6:00 PM | Tackling, coverage, situational plays |
| Thursday | Full Team Walkthrough | 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM | Game plan refinement, special teams focus |
| Friday | Game Day | Evening | Kickoff (typically 7:00 PM) |
| Saturday | Rest or Light Workout | Optional | Recovery for starters, reps for backups |
Note: Exact times may vary based on school schedules and Coach Helms’ preferences—check with the team’s official channels for updates!
How Does Bunker Hill Prepare for Success?
Success at Bunker Hill isn’t an accident—it’s forged through sweat and strategy.
Coaching That Connects
Brandon Helms brings a no-nonsense style, emphasizing fundamentals over flash. His mantra? “Win the line, win the game.” It’s a throwback approach that resonates in Claremont.
Training with Purpose
- Weight Room Warriors: Offseason lifting builds the physicality needed for 2A battles.
- Speed Work: Agility drills sharpen players like Cox for explosive plays.
- Film Sessions: Weekly breakdowns turn mistakes into teachable moments.
Community Fuel
Claremont doesn’t just watch Bunker Hill football—they live it. From tailgates to fundraisers, the town’s 1,500 residents turn out in force, creating a home-field edge that’s tough to match.
What Are Bunker Hill’s Fiercest Rivalries?
Rivalries ignite passion, and Bunker Hill’s matchups deliver.
- Vs. Lincolnton: A classic David-and-Goliath tilt—Lincolnton’s recent 66-60 win proves no lead is safe.
- Vs. Maiden: Another Catawba County clash, where pride and bragging rights hang in the balance.
These games aren’t just contests; they’re community events that pack the stands and spark barbershop debates.
How Can Fans Stay in the Loop?
Want to follow the Bears? Here’s your game plan:
- Live Updates: Check MaxPreps or the Charlotte Observer for scores.
- Local Coverage: WBTV often highlights Catawba County sports.
- Social Media: Follow Bunker Hill Athletics on X or Facebook for real-time buzz.
Tips for Aspiring Bunker Hill Players
Dreaming of wearing the Bears’ jersey? Here’s how to get there:
- Start Young: Join Claremont youth leagues to build skills early.
- Hit the Books: Eligibility starts with grades—aim for a 3.0 GPA or higher.
- Show Up: Attend summer camps to catch Coach Helms’ eye.
- Grind Daily: Outwork your peers—talent shines, but effort wins.
Why Does Bunker Hill Football Matter?
Bunker Hill High School football isn’t about national rankings or NFL pipelines—it’s about identity. In a state dominated by Charlotte and Raleigh metro giants, the Bears represent the heartbeat of rural North Carolina sports. They prove you don’t need a massive budget or a sprawling campus to compete—just heart, hustle, and a town that believes.
Fun Fact
Claremont’s population is smaller than some Texas high school stadium capacities, yet their spirit rivals any big-city crowd!
See Also: fballquery.com
Conclusion
The 2024-2025 season showed Bunker Hill High School football is on the cusp of something special. With young stars like Aiden Cox maturing, Coach Helms’ steady hand, and a community that never wavers, the Bears are poised to climb the 2A ladder. They may not have a state title yet, but their story—of grit, growth, and small-town glory—is one worth rooting for. So, next Friday night, tune in or head to Claremont. The Bears are ready to roar—are you?
