Nestled in the coastal town of New Bern, North Carolina, New Bern High School football isn’t just a team—it’s a heartbeat. For decades, the Bears have roared through the gridiron, blending a rich history with modern triumphs that keep fans buzzing from the stands of Caruso-Coates Stadium to the streets of this tight-knit community. Whether it’s their state championship pedigree, standout players bound for the big leagues, or the relentless spirit of their supporters, New Bern football captures the essence of Friday night lights in the Tar Heel State.
In this 1300 -word deep dive, we’ll unpack the Bears’ storied past, dissect their recent rollercoaster seasons, spotlight the stars who’ve carried the torch, and reveal what fuels their enduring success in North Carolina’s fiercely competitive 4A landscape. Curious why New Bern High School football is a name every fan should know? Let’s hit the field and find out.
What Makes New Bern High School Football Special?
Texas might claim the crown for high school football hype, but North Carolina’s New Bern Bears prove the sport’s soul thrives nationwide. At New Bern High School, football transcends the game—it’s a tradition woven into the fabric of a town founded in 1710. With a campus buzzing with roughly 1,700 students and a faculty of 165, this powerhouse in the Eastern Carolina 3A/4A Conference stands tall among giants like Havelock and D.H. Conley.
What sets the Bears apart? It’s their knack for resilience, a coaching legacy that shapes raw talent into champions, and a fanbase that turns every snap into a communal roar. From state titles to NFL pipelines, New Bern football isn’t just playing the game—it’s rewriting the playbook for small-town greatness.
New Bern High School Football at a Glance
Here’s a quick snapshot of what defines the Bears:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | New Bern, North Carolina, 120 miles southeast of Raleigh |
| School Size | ~1,700 students, 165 staff, student-teacher ratio of 14:1 |
| State Championships | 2007, 2012, 2014 (4A titles under coach Bobby Curlings) |
| Recent Ranking | No. 19 in North Carolina (MaxPreps, 2024) |
| Notable Players | Mike Hughes (NFL CB, Atlanta Falcons), Montario Hardesty (NFL RB), Ivion Smith (2024 star) |
| Head Coach | Terrance Saxby (took over in 2023 after Torrey Nowell’s exit) |
| Rivalries | J.H. Rose, D.H. Conley, Northside-Jacksonville |
| 2024 Record | 10-2, lost 42-21 to Rolesville in 4A quarterfinals on November 29, 2024 |
This table is your playbook—stick around for the full game plan!
A Brief History of New Bern High School Football
The Rise of a Coastal Powerhouse
New Bern High School football’s journey to prominence hit high gear in the early 2000s. Under the steady hand of coach Bobby Curlings, the Bears snagged their first 4A state championship in 2007, toppling Charlotte Independence 28-13. It was a statement win, proving a coastal squad could slug it out with urban titans.
The momentum rolled into 2012, when New Bern edged Porter Ridge 39-38 in a nail-biter, and peaked again in 2014 with a decisive victory. These titles—three in seven years—cemented the Bears as a dynasty under Curlings, whose field now bears his name at Caruso-Coates Stadium.
Key Milestones in Bears History
- 2007: First 4A state title, a breakout moment for New Bern.
- 2012: A thrilling one-point championship win over Porter Ridge.
- 2014: Third title in the Curlings era, solidifying their legacy.
- 2022: A vacated title after a 16-0 season due to ineligible players—a bitter pill for fans.
Despite setbacks, New Bern’s ability to reload talent keeps them in the hunt year after year.
How Did New Bern Football Perform Recently?
The 2024 Season: Triumph and Tough Lessons
The Bears roared into 2024 with a 10-2 record, averaging 35.8 points per game. Their playoff run showcased their grit—until a 42-21 loss to Rolesville in the 4A quarterfinals on November 29, 2024, halted their march. Still, finishing No. 19 in North Carolina (MaxPreps) reflects a season of dominance tempered by a tough exit.
Standout Games of 2024
- Week 9 Blowout: A 56-12 rout of Northside-Jacksonville, with RB Ivion Smith racking up 150+ yards.
- Playoff Thriller: A 28-15 win over D.H. Conley, where QB Wyatt Jackson’s clutch throws sealed the deal.
- Quarterfinal Clash: Rolesville’s defense stifled New Bern’s offense, ending their title dreams.
The Bears’ 2024 campaign echoed their history: flashes of brilliance, met with challenges that test their mettle.
Who Are the Standout Players on the New Bern Bears?
New Bern’s roster is a talent incubator, producing stars who shine locally and beyond.
Wyatt Jackson – Quarterback Spark
- Class: 2025
- Stats: 2,300+ passing yards, 28 TDs in 2024
- Impact: A dual-threat leader whose poise earned MaxPreps Player of the Game nods
Jackson’s arm and legs kept defenses guessing, making him a cornerstone of the Bears’ attack.
Ivion Smith – Running Back Beast
- Class: Senior (2024)
- Stats: 1,200+ rushing yards, 15 TDs
- Future: Drawing college interest for his explosive cuts and vision
Smith’s bruising runs, like his 150-yard outburst against Northside, powered New Bern’s ground game.
Mike Hughes – NFL Success Story
- Class: 2015
- NFL Career: Cornerback for the Atlanta Falcons, drafted by Minnesota in 2018
- Legacy: A Bears alum who proves New Bern breeds pros
From Hughes to Hardesty (ex-Tennessee RB), New Bern’s pipeline to the next level is undeniable.
How Does New Bern High School Football Prepare for Success?
Coaching That Shapes Champions
Terrance Saxby, stepping in after Torrey Nowell’s 2023 exit, brings fresh energy to a program built by Bobby Curlings’ blueprint. Saxby’s focus? Discipline and adaptability—keys to navigating the 2023 probation fallout from ineligible player penalties.
Practice Schedule: The Grind Behind the Glory
Here’s a peek at the Bears’ weekly regimen (based on typical high school football schedules and community insights):
| Day | Activity | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | Film review, light conditioning | 2-3 hours |
| Tuesday | Full pads practice, offensive drills | 3 hours |
| Wednesday | Defensive focus, special teams | 3 hours |
| Thursday | Walk-through, game plan finalization | 2 hours |
| Friday | Game day—kickoff at 7 PM | 3-4 hours |
| Saturday | Recovery, optional film study | 1-2 hours |
| Sunday | Rest day, player-led strategy sessions (optional) | 1 hour |
This disciplined grind—honed at Bobby Curlings Field—builds the Bears’ edge.
Community Fuel
New Bern’s fans don’t just cheer—they ignite. With 3,000+ packing Caruso-Coates Stadium, pre-game pep rallies, and local businesses sponsoring gear, the town’s support is a game-changer.
What Are New Bern’s Fiercest Rivalries?
New Bern vs. J.H. Rose
This Greenville showdown is a conference classic, with the 2024 matchup ending in a 29-7 Bears win—proof of their edge.
New Bern vs. D.H. Conley
The Vikings pushed New Bern to the brink in the 2024 playoffs, only to fall 28-15. It’s a rivalry that tests both squads’ resolve.
New Bern vs. North Shore (Past Playoff Foes)
Though not a regular clash, North Shore’s 2022 title game loss to New Bern (later vacated) lingers as a historic measuring stick.
How Can Fans Follow New Bern High School Football?
- Live Streams: NFHS Network broadcasts every snap.
- Scores & Updates: MaxPreps and NewBernSJ.com track the action.
- Social Buzz: Follow @NBHSAthletics on X for highlights and recruiting scoops.
What Tips Can Aspiring Bears Players Use?
Dreaming of wearing the red and black? Try these:
- Start Young: Join youth leagues like New Bern Pop Warner.
- Hit the Books: A 2.5 GPA keeps you eligible per NCHSAA rules.
- Show Up: Summer camps at NBHS catch coaches’ eyes.
- Outwork the Rest: Extra reps turn talent into stardom.
Why Does New Bern Football Matter to North Carolina Sports?
New Bern High School football isn’t just a team—it’s a proving ground. Their three state titles (despite 2022’s erasure) and NFL alumni like Mike Hughes spotlight a program that punches above its weight. In a state obsessed with basketball, the Bears remind us football’s pulse beats strong, uniting a community through every touchdown and tackle.
Fun Fact: The Bears’ 2007 title win came on December 10—my birthday today is April 6, 2025, but imagine the party back then!
See Also: fballquery.com
Conclusion
The 2024 season ended short of a championship, but New Bern High School football’s story is one of resilience. With young stars like Wyatt Jackson, a reloaded roster, and Terrance Saxby’s steady hand, the Bears are poised to chase more glory. This isn’t just a team—it’s a legacy that echoes from the Pamlico Sound to the national stage.
