Elizabethtown High School Football: A Legacy of Grit and Glory

In the heart of Bladen County, North Carolina, Elizabethtown High School football isn’t just a sport—it’s the pulse of a tight-knit community. The East Bladen Eagles soar under the Friday night lights at Lenon Fisher Stadium, where passion, tradition, and raw talent collide to create moments that echo through generations. This isn’t a program chasing fleeting glory; it’s a dynasty built on resilience, local pride, and a relentless drive to compete in North Carolina’s cutthroat 2A division. In this 1,600-word deep dive, we’ll unravel the Eagles’ storied history, break down their 2024 season, spotlight the players fueling the charge, and reveal what makes Elizabethtown football a cornerstone of Bladen County culture. Buckle up—here’s why the East Bladen Eagles are a force to be reckoned with.

What Makes Elizabethtown Football Unique?

North Carolina high school football is a battleground of talent and heart, and Elizabethtown’s East Bladen Eagles stand out as a beacon of small-town excellence. Nestled at 5600 NC Hwy 87 East, Elizabethtown High School (home to the East Bladen Eagles) serves a community where football is more than a game—it’s a shared identity. The Eagles have earned a reputation for punching above their weight, blending disciplined coaching, homegrown talent, and an unwavering fanbase draped in green and gold.

What sets them apart? It’s the alchemy of history, hustle, and heart. With multiple playoff appearances and a knack for producing college-bound athletes, East Bladen thrives in the competitive Three Rivers Conference. From gritty rivalry showdowns to clutch postseason performances, the Eagles deliver drama—and their supporters turn Lenon Fisher Stadium into a cauldron of noise.

East Bladen Eagles: The Essentials

Here’s the lowdown on what defines Elizabethtown’s football program:

This snapshot is just the start—let’s dive deeper into the Eagles’ story.

A Storied Past: The History of East Bladen Football

The East Bladen Eagles took flight in 2001, when Elizabethtown High School merged with Bladenboro to form East Bladen High School. From the outset, the program embraced its underdog status, forging a legacy of grit in North Carolina’s 2A ranks. Early coaches like Lenon Fisher—who the stadium is named after—laid a foundation of discipline and community pride, turning local kids into fierce competitors.

While a state championship has eluded the Eagles, their consistency is undeniable. They’ve been a playoff fixture, with notable runs in the 2000s and 2010s that showcased their ability to compete with bigger programs. The 2017 season, a 10-3 campaign under Coach Robby Priest, marked a high point, with the Eagles reaching the 2A quarterfinals and cementing their reputation as a team that never backs down.

Key Moments in East Bladen History

• 2001: East Bladen is born, kicking off a new era of football in Bladen County.

• 2017: A 10-3 season and quarterfinal run put the Eagles on the 2A map.

• 2023: A 9-3 record and a first-round playoff win signal a program on the rise. The Eagles’ ability to reload with fresh talent keeps them in the hunt year after year.

How Did East Bladen Fare in 2024?

The 2024 season was a testament to East Bladen’s resilience. Finishing 8-4, the Eagles went 5-1 in the Three Rivers Conference, dominating foes with a balanced attack that averaged 32 points per game. Their playoff journey ended in the second round with a 28-14 loss to Cummings on November 22, 2024, but not before they proved their mettle against top-tier competition.

2024 Season Match Scores

Here’s every game from the Eagles’ 2024 campaign:

Standout Games of 2024

• Sep 13 vs. West Bladen: A 34-7 rout in the rivalry game showcased East Bladen’s dominance.

• Nov 15 vs. Bunn: A 24-21 playoff thriller highlighted the Eagles’ clutch play. The season underscored East Bladen’s ability to compete, even if the ultimate prize slipped away.

Who Are the Stars of East Bladen Football?

The Eagles’ roster is packed with talent, producing athletes who shine locally and draw college interest.

• Tayshaun Campbell – Senior Running Back

  • 2024 Stats: 1,200+ rushing yards, 15 TDs.

  • Impact: A workhorse with breakaway speed, Campbell is the heart of the offense.

  • Future: Drawing looks from FCS programs like Campbell University.

• Zy’Kwan McCrimmon – Junior Quarterback

  • 2024 Stats: 1,800 passing yards, 12 TDs, dual-threat playmaker.

  • Impact: His poise and versatility keep defenses guessing.

• RaSean McKoy – Senior Linebacker

  • 2024 Stats: 90 tackles, 3 sacks, 2 INTs.

  • Legacy: A defensive anchor headed to Elizabeth City State.

These players, backed by a stout offensive line, drive East Bladen’s success.

What’s East Bladen’s Practice Schedule?

Success starts with sweat. Here’s the Eagles’ typical practice routine:

This NCHSAA-compliant regimen builds toughness and teamwork.

How Does East Bladen Prepare for Success?

The Eagles’ formula is simple but effective: coaching, training, and community synergy.

Coaching Mastery

Head Coach Robby Priest, a Bladen County native, blends old-school grit with modern strategy. His player-first philosophy empowers leaders like Tayshaun Campbell to set the tone.

Relentless Training

• Offseason: June brings weight room sessions and speed drills.

• In-Season: Practices hone everything from trick plays to tackling technique.

• Film Study: Breaking down opponents gives the Eagles a tactical edge.

Community Passion

Lenon Fisher Stadium draws 2,000+ fans per game. From tailgates to youth clinics, Bladen County rallies behind its Eagles.

What Are East Bladen’s Top Rivalries?

Rivalries fuel the Eagles’ fire.

• East Bladen vs. West Bladen

  • 2024 Result: 34-7 win kept county bragging rights in Elizabethtown.

  • Why It Matters: The “Battle of Bladen” splits families and fills the stands.

• East Bladen vs. Whiteville

  • History: A 17-14 loss in 2024 stings, but past wins keep the feud hot.

  • Edge: Whiteville’s speed tests East Bladen’s defense.

How Can Fans Stay Connected?

Follow the Eagles with these resources:

• Live Streams: Check Hudl Fan or Bladen Online.

• Scores: MaxPreps or Bladen Journal for updates.

• Social: X posts from @EastBladenFB keep the buzz alive.

Tips for Aspiring Eagles

Dream of wearing green and gold? Here’s how:

• Start Early: Play for middle school teams like Elizabethtown Middle.

• Stay Eligible: Grades matter as much as athleticism.

• Show Grit: Summer camps are your chance to impress Coach Priest.

Why East Bladen Football Matters

The Eagles are more than a team—they’re Bladen County’s heartbeat. Their playoff runs inspire kids, their alumni lift the community, and their games unite neighbors. In a town of 3,500, football is a legacy that binds generations.

Fun Fact

The 2017 team’s 10 wins were the most in program history, outscoring opponents 412-189!

See Also: fballquery.com

Conclusion

The 2024 season didn’t end with a trophy, but East Bladen High School football’s spirit is unbreakable. With stars like Tayshaun Campbell, a battle-tested coach in Robby Priest, and a community that never stops cheering, the Eagles are primed for future glory. They’re not just playing football—they’re building a legacy. Want to catch their next big moment? Follow the journey, grab a seat at Lenon Fisher Stadium, and join the roar. Go Eagles!

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