Rolesville High School Football: A North Carolina Powerhouse

In the heart of Rolesville, North Carolina, Rolesville High School football isn’t just a sport—it’s the pulse of a tight-knit community. The Rams, clad in maroon and silver, charge onto the field at Rams Stadium with a hunger for victory and a legacy that resonates far beyond the town’s borders. This isn’t just a team; it’s a tradition of excellence, fueled by standout athletes, a visionary coaching staff, and fans who live for Friday night lights. In this 1,600-word deep dive, we’ll unravel Rolesville’s storied history, break down their electrifying 2024 season, spotlight the players and coaches driving the charge, and explore the rivalries, training, and community spirit that make the Rams a force in North Carolina’s cutthroat 4A division. Buckle up—this is why Rolesville football demands your attention.

Why Rolesville Football Stands Out

North Carolina high school football is a battleground, and Rolesville High School holds its own among the giants. Nestled at 1099 East Young Street in the rapidly growing Wake County Public School System, the Rams have transformed from a new program into a perennial contender. Since opening in 2013 after splitting from Wake Forest-Rolesville High School, Rolesville has built a reputation for explosive offenses, bone-crushing defenses, and a knack for producing Division I talent.

What sets them apart? It’s a blend of modern facilities, relentless preparation, and a community that rallies like few others. With a state runner-up finish in 2021 and consistent playoff appearances, Rolesville is a name synonymous with grit and glory in the Tar Heel State. Their 2024 season, culminating in a 4A state championship loss to Grimsley, only solidified their status as a team to watch.

Rolesville High School Football at a Glance

Here’s the quick rundown on the Rolesville Rams:

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

A Brief History of Rolesville Football

Rolesville High School opened its doors in 2013, a $73 million state-of-the-art facility born from the split of Wake Forest-Rolesville High School. The football program hit the ground running, quickly establishing itself as a contender in the NCHSAA 4A division. In just eight years, the Rams reached the 2021 4A state championship game, falling to Cardinal Gibbons but proving they belonged on the big stage.

The program’s rapid rise is no fluke. Under coaches like Ranier Rackley, Rolesville has leveraged Wake County’s talent pool and a culture of discipline to become a playoff regular. Their 2024 season, with a 14-2 record and a NAC-6 Conference title, underscores their staying power. While a state title remains elusive, the Rams’ consistent deep playoff runs—four regional finals in six years—signal a program on the cusp of immortality.

Key Moments in Rolesville History

• 2013: The Rams take the field as a new program, building from scratch with raw talent.

• 2021: A 13-2 season ends with a 4A state runner-up finish, putting Rolesville on the map.

• 2024: A 14-2 campaign, NAC-6 championship, and another state title game appearance cement their elite status.

Rolesville’s ability to compete with North Carolina’s best, despite their youth, is a testament to their vision and drive.

The 2024 Season: A Thrilling Ride

The 2024 season was a masterclass in dominance for Rolesville, with a 14-2 record and a trip to the NCHSAA 4A state championship. The Rams went 5-0 in the NAC-6 Conference, averaging 40 points per game while holding opponents to under 15. Their playoff path was a gauntlet, featuring wins over powerhouses like Cleveland (49-6) and Cardinal Gibbons (38-31), before a 35-23 loss to undefeated Grimsley in the title game on December 20, 2024.

2024 Season Match Scores

Here’s every snap of Rolesville’s 2024 journey:

Standout Games of 2024

• Nov 29 vs. Cleveland: A 49-6 rout in the playoffs showcased Rolesville’s balanced attack, with Braden Atkinson throwing for three TDs.

• Dec 13 vs. Cardinal Gibbons: A 38-31 thriller saw Jaedon Alford’s 34-yard TD catch and a 64-yard bomb to Gavin Waddell seal a regional final win.

• Dec 20 vs. Grimsley: Despite a 35-23 loss, Braden Atkinson’s 298 passing yards and three TDs kept the Rams competitive.

Ranked No. 5 in North Carolina by HighSchoolOT, Rolesville’s season was a statement of their elite potential.

The Stars Powering the Rams

Rolesville’s roster is loaded with talent, producing players who dominate locally and draw national recruiting buzz.

• Braden Atkinson – Senior Quarterback

  • 2024 Stats: 3,200 passing yards, 35 TDs, 5 INTs; committed to Mercer (FCS).

  • Impact: A dual-threat leader whose poise in the pocket fuels Rolesville’s high-octane offense.

• De’Von Thomas – Senior Running Back

  • 2024 Stats: 1,500 rushing yards, 20 TDs; elusive and explosive.

  • Future: Drawing FBS interest, he’s a cornerstone of the Rams’ ground game.

• Zavion Griffin-Haynes – Junior Defensive End

  • 2024 Stats: 12 sacks, 18 tackles for loss; a 4-star prospect.

  • Future: Offers from NC State, South Carolina, and more; a disruptive force.

These stars, backed by receivers like Gavin Waddell (112 yards vs. Cardinal Gibbons) and Jaedon Alford, make Rolesville’s attack relentless.

The Practice Regimen Behind the Success

Rolesville’s dominance starts with a grueling, disciplined practice schedule:

This NCHSAA-compliant routine builds physical and mental toughness, with summer camps like the “Rams Ironman” setting the tone.

How Rolesville Prepares for Glory

Winning at Rolesville is no accident—it’s a science.

• Coaching Brilliance: Ranier Rackley’s player-first philosophy empowers leaders like Atkinson. His staff’s film breakdowns give the Rams a tactical edge.

• Elite Training: Offseason lifting and speed drills create athletic freaks. In-season, practices focus on precision, from route-running to blitz packages.

• Community Passion: Rams Stadium packs in 4,000+ fans per game. Pre-game tailgates and booster club support keep morale sky-high.

A special nod goes to senior Gavin Marks, the 2024 sportsmanship award winner, who inspired the team while battling Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.

Rivalries That Ignite the Season

Rolesville’s rivalries add fire to their campaign:

• Rolesville vs. Cardinal Gibbons

  • 2024 Result: 38-31 playoff win avenged a regular-season overtime loss.

  • Why It Matters: A clash of 4A titans, it’s a recruiting showcase for both sides.

• Rolesville vs. Wake Forest

  • 2024 Result: 35-14 win kept local bragging rights.

  • Edge: Born from the 2013 school split, this feud is personal.

• Rolesville vs. Cleveland

  • 2024 Result: 49-6 playoff blowout.

  • Story: A newer rivalry, but Cleveland’s rise makes it spicy.

Fan Engagement and How to Follow

Stay connected with the Rams:

• Live Streams: NFHS Network or Hudl Fan (subscription required).

• Scores: MaxPreps, HighSchoolOT, or WRAL’s live updates.

• Social Media: Follow @RolesvilleRams on X for real-time hype.

• Community Events: Join tailgates or the booster club via rolesvilleathleticzone.com.

Tips for Aspiring Rams

Dream of wearing maroon and silver? Here’s your path:

• Start Early: Play for middle schools like Rolesville or Wake Forest.

• Stay Eligible: A 4.15 team GPA in 2024 shows academics matter.

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

Why Rolesville Football Matters

Rolesville football is more than a game—it’s a beacon of community pride. From producing college stars to uniting a growing town, the Rams inspire resilience and ambition. Their 2024 season, with a 12-2 conference record and a state title game appearance, proves they’re not just contenders—they’re builders of a lasting legacy.

Fun Fact

Rolesville’s 2024 team had seven players with FBS offers, including four wide receivers, making their passing game a nightmare for defenses.

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Conclusion

The 2024 season fell one win short of a championship, but Rolesville High School football is far from done. With young talents like Zavion Griffin-Haynes, a proven coach in Ranier Rackley, and a fanbase that shakes Rams Stadium, the Rams are primed for future glory. They’re not just playing football—they’re crafting a story of heart, hustle, and hometown pride. Want to catch their next chapter? Stream a game, join the crowd, or follow the buzz on X. The Rams are charging—don’t miss it. Go Rams!