Eastside High School Football: A Legacy of Grit and Glory

In the heart of Wilmington, North Carolina, Eastside High School football isn’t just a sport—it’s the pulse of a community. At Legion Stadium, where the stands thrum with green and gold, the Eagles soar under Friday night lights, carrying a legacy of resilience, pride, and unyielding spirit. This isn’t just a team; it’s a tradition woven into the fabric of New Hanover County, where every tackle, touchdown, and triumph tells a story of a city that never backs down. In this 1372-word deep dive, we’ll unravel Eastside’s storied history, break down their 2024 season, spotlight the players fueling the fire, and reveal what makes this program a cornerstone of North Carolina’s 3A football scene. Ready to feel the Eagles’ wingbeat? Let’s dive in.

What Makes Eastside High School Football Unique?

North Carolina football has its giants, but Eastside High School, nestled at 1601 S 10th St, Wilmington, NC, holds its own with a blend of heart, hustle, and history. The Eagles are more than a team—they’re a symbol of Wilmington’s working-class grit, transforming local talent into gridiron warriors who compete with the state’s best. Known for their scrappy playstyle, relentless defense, and a fanbase that turns Legion Stadium into a fortress, Eastside embodies the soul of high school football.

What sets them apart? It’s their ability to punch above their weight. Despite competing in the competitive 3A Mideastern Conference, Eastside consistently churns out playoff contenders, college prospects, and moments that linger in local lore. From historic rivalries to community-driven momentum, the Eagles are a force that demands respect.

Eastside High School Football: The Essentials

Here’s a quick snapshot of what defines the Eastside Eagles:

This overview is just the start—let’s explore the Eagles’ flight path.

A Storied Past: The History of Eastside Football

Eastside High School’s football program took flight in the late 1960s, born in an era when Wilmington was navigating desegregation and social change. The Eagles’ early years were about building identity, with coaches like James Tyson laying the groundwork for a program rooted in toughness and teamwork. By the 1980s, Eastside was a regular in the 3A playoffs, earning respect for their hard-nosed style.

The 1990s and 2000s saw the Eagles solidify their reputation as a breeding ground for talent. Players like running back Corey Williams (Class of 1998) went on to play at NC State, setting a precedent for future stars. While a state championship has eluded them, Eastside’s consistent playoff runs—10 appearances since 2000—prove their staying power. The 2018 season, with a 10-3 record and a third-round playoff berth, remains a high-water mark in recent memory.

Key Moments in Eastside History

• 1971: The Eagles notch their first winning season (7-3), signaling their arrival.

• 1998: Corey Williams earns All-State honors, putting Eastside on the college recruiting map.

• 2018: A 10-3 season and deep playoff run showcase the program’s modern resurgence.

Eastside’s history is a testament to perseverance, with each generation adding to the Eagles’ legacy.

How Did Eastside Football Fare in 2024?

The 2024 season was a tale of triumph and lessons for Eastside. Finishing 9-4, the Eagles dominated early, going 6-1 in the Mideastern Conference and averaging 32 points per game. Their playoff journey ended in the second round with a 28-14 loss to Havelock on November 22, 2024, but not before they proved their mettle against top-tier competition.

2024 Season Match Scores

Here’s the full rundown of Eastside’s 2024 games:

Standout Games of 2024

• Oct 25 vs. New Hanover: A 28-21 victory in a rivalry classic, with Jaden Smith rushing for 150 yards and two TDs.

• Nov 22 vs. Havelock: A gritty playoff loss that highlighted Eastside’s resilience but exposed gaps in their passing game.

Ranked No. 45 in North Carolina by MaxPreps, Eastside’s 2024 season was a step toward greater heights.

Who Are the Stars of Eastside Football?

Eastside’s roster brims with talent, blending seasoned veterans with hungry newcomers.

• Jaden Smith – Junior Running Back

  • 2024 Stats: 1,200 rushing yards, 15 TDs, averaged 6.5 yards per carry.

  • Impact: A shifty, powerful runner who breaks tackles and games open.

  • Future: Drawing interest from FCS programs like Elon and NC A&T.

• Malik Johnson – Senior Linebacker

  • 2024 Stats: 90 tackles, 10 for loss, 3 sacks.

  • Impact: The heart of the defense, with instincts that disrupt plays early.

  • Legacy: Committed to Coastal Carolina, carrying Eastside’s defensive torch.

• Tyrese Green – Quarterback (Class of 2024)

  • Stats: 1,800 passing yards in 2023, led the team to a 9-3 record.

  • Legacy: Now at Lenoir-Rhyne, he set a standard for dual-threat QBs.

These players, backed by a stout offensive line, keep Eastside soaring.

What’s Eastside’s Practice Regimen?

Success starts in the sweat-soaked days of practice. Here’s Eastside’s typical schedule:

Aligned with NCHSAA rules, this regimen hones skills and builds brotherhood.

How Does Eastside Football Breed Success?

Eastside’s formula for winning combines coaching wisdom, rigorous training, and a community that rallies like no other.

Coaching Mastery

Head coach Antonio Moore, a Wilmington native, instills discipline and belief. His “next play” mentality ensures players stay focused, while his staff’s scouting gives Eastside a strategic edge.

Training That Forges Champions

• Offseason: Strength training and speed camps start in June, emphasizing explosiveness.

• In-Season: Practices blend physicality with precision, from zone reads to blitz pickups.

• Film Study: Hours dissecting opponents’ tendencies sharpen game-day execution.

Community Spirit

Legion Stadium draws 3,000+ fans per game, with tailgates and pep rallies fueling the vibe. Local businesses sponsor the team, and alumni like Tyrese Green return to mentor the next wave.

What Are Eastside’s Biggest Rivalries?

Rivalries are the lifeblood of Eastside’s season, igniting passion across Wilmington.

• Eastside vs. New Hanover

  • 2024 Result: 28-21 win, a testament to Eastside’s clutch play.

  • Why It Matters: A city showdown where pride and bragging rights hang in the balance.

• Eastside vs. Hoggard

  • History: Hoggard’s 35-14 win in 2024 stung, but Eastside’s 2018 upset (27-24) looms large.

  • Edge: Eastside’s speed challenges Hoggard’s power.

How Can Fans Keep Up?

Stay connected with the Eagles:

• Live Streams: Watch on NFHS Network or New Hanover County Schools’ YouTube.

• Scores: Track via MaxPreps or Wilmington StarNews.

• Social: Follow @EastsideEagles on X for updates and highlights.

Tips for Aspiring Eastside Players

Dreaming of wearing green and gold? Here’s your roadmap:

• Start Early: Play for middle schools like Virgo or Williston.

• Stay Eligible: Maintain a 2.0 GPA per NCHSAA rules.

• Show Grit: Attend summer camps and 7-on-7s to catch coaches’ eyes.

Why Eastside Football Matters

Eastside isn’t just a team—it’s a beacon of hope in Wilmington. Their relentless pursuit of excellence inspires students, unites families, and keeps the city’s football culture alive. Every game is a chance to show that heart can outshine circumstance.

Fun Fact

In 2018, Eastside’s defense held opponents to 10 points or less in six games—a modern program record!

See Also: fballquery.com

Conclusion

The 2024 season didn’t end with a trophy, but Eastside High School football’s spirit remains unbreakable. With stars like Jaden Smith, a coach like Antonio Moore who bleeds Wilmington, and a community that roars louder than most, the Eagles are primed for future glory. They’re not just playing football—they’re writing a legacy. Want to catch their next chapter? Tune in, grab a seat at Legion Stadium, and join the flight. Go Eagles!

Keywords: Eastside High School football, Wilmington NC football, Eagles football, New Hanover County Schools, 2024 season recap, Mideastern Conference, high school football playoffs, Jaden Smith running back, Malik Johnson linebacker, Antonio Moore coach, New Hanover rivalry, Hoggard rivalry, Legion Stadium, North Carolina 3A football, player development, community support, football tradition, MaxPreps rankings, NCHSAA football.