In the heart of Matthews, North Carolina, Waddington High School football isn’t just a program—it’s a legacy forged in sweat, strategy, and unyielding community pride. At Warriors Stadium, where green and white banners wave under Friday night lights, the Weddington Warriors embody the soul of Tar Heel football. This isn’t just a team; it’s a powerhouse with three state championships, a pipeline to college programs, and a fanbase that turns every game into a hometown spectacle. In this 1500-word deep dive, we’ll explore Weddington’s storied past, unpack their 2024 season, highlight the players fueling their dominance, and reveal what makes them a titan in North Carolina’s cutthroat 4A division. Ready to see why Weddington football commands respect? Let’s hit the field.
What Makes Weddington Football Unstoppable?
North Carolina football has no shortage of contenders, but Weddington High School stands in a league of its own. Nestled at 4901 Monroe-Weddington Road, this Union County gem has transformed from a modest program into a 4A juggernaut. Under the guidance of head coach Andy Capone, a 2025 Carolina Panthers High School Coach of the Year, the Warriors have built a reputation for precision offense, suffocating defense, and a culture that breeds winners.
What sets them apart? It’s a blend of elite coaching, relentless preparation, and a community that lives for football. With a 90-9 record under Capone since 2018 and three NCHSAA 4A state titles, Weddington doesn’t just compete—they dominate. From rivalry showdowns with Marvin Ridge to playoff clashes against the state’s best, the Warriors bring intensity, and their fans bring the roar.
Weddington High School Football: The Essentials
Here’s the rundown on what defines the Weddington Warriors:
Aspect |
Details |
---|---|
Location |
Matthews, NC, at 4901 Monroe-Weddington Rd |
School Size |
Large campus in Union County Schools, serving over 2,000 students |
State Championships |
2016, 2018, 2019 (NCHSAA 4A) |
Recent Ranking |
No. 2 in NC (MaxPreps, 2024 season) |
Notable Players |
Will Shipley (RB, Clemson/Philadelphia Eagles), Aiden Harris (LB, 2026) |
Head Coach |
Andy Capone, 90-9 record, 2025 Don Shula HS Coach of the Year nominee |
Rivalries |
Marvin Ridge, Charlotte Catholic, Hough |
2024 Record |
13-1, lost 35-23 to Grimsley in 4A semifinals on Dec 13, 2024 |
This snapshot only scratches the surface—let’s dive deeper into the Warriors’ saga.
A Storied Past: The Rise of Weddington Football
Weddington’s football journey began in 2000, when the school opened its doors and fielded a team with big dreams but little fanfare. Early years were about building identity, but by 2010, the Warriors were making noise in the playoffs. The turning point came in 2016, when they claimed their first NCHSAA 4A state championship, a 49-14 rout that signaled their arrival.
Under Andy Capone’s leadership since 2018, Weddington has become a dynasty. The 2018 and 2019 back-to-back 4A titles—capped by undefeated seasons—cemented their dominance. The 2019 squad, led by future NFL running back Will Shipley, went 16-0, outscoring opponents by an average of 30 points. Even in 2023, a 14-2 season ended with a state championship appearance, though they fell 56-21 to Hoggard’s rivals.
Key Moments in Weddington History
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2000: Weddington fields its first team, laying the groundwork for future glory.
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2016: The Warriors’ first 4A state title marks the start of a golden era.
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2018-2019: Consecutive undefeated seasons and championships solidify their legacy.
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2023: A 14-2 campaign and state runner-up finish keep Weddington in the elite.
Weddington’s ability to reload with fresh talent while maintaining a championship mindset keeps them a perennial threat.
How Did Weddington Football Fare in 2024?
The 2024 season was a masterclass in resilience for Weddington, finishing 13-1 and ranked No. 2 in North Carolina. The Warriors tore through the Southern Carolina 4A Conference with an 8-0 record, averaging 40 points per game while allowing just 10. Their playoff run showcased their grit—until a 35-23 loss to top-ranked Grimsley in the 4A semifinals on December 13, 2024, ended their title hopes.
2024 Season Match Scores
Here’s every game from Weddington’s 2024 campaign:
Date |
Opponent |
Score |
Result |
---|---|---|---|
Aug 23, 2024 |
Cox Mill |
42-7 |
vendor:Score |
Aug 30, 2024 |
Providence Day |
28-14 |
Win |
Sep 6, 2024 |
Ardrey Kell |
35-0 |
Win |
Sep 13, 2024 |
South Mecklenburg |
49-10 |
Win |
Sep 20, 2024 |
Myers Park |
38-6 |
Win |
Sep 27, 2024 |
Marvin Ridge |
31-14 |
Win |
Oct 4, 2024 |
Charlotte Catholic |
27-13 |
Win |
Oct 11, 2024 |
Parkwood |
56-0 |
Win |
Oct 18, 2024 |
Sun Valley |
42-3 |
Win |
Oct 25, 2024 |
Cuthbertson |
49-7 |
Win |
Nov 1, 2024 |
Porter Ridge |
35-6 |
Win |
Nov 15, 2024 |
Davie (Playoffs) |
42-14 |
Win |
Nov 22, 2024 |
Sun Valley (Playoffs) |
35-12 |
Win |
Dec 13, 2024 |
Grimsley (Playoffs) |
23-35 |
Loss |
Standout Games of 2024
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Sep 27 vs. Marvin Ridge: A 31-14 win in a heated rivalry game showcased Weddington’s depth.
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Dec 13 vs. Grimsley: Despite the 35-23 loss, Aiden Harris’ defensive heroics kept the Warriors in the fight.
Weddington’s No. 2 state ranking reflects their near-perfect season, with the Grimsley loss fueling their 2025 ambitions.
Who Are Weddington’s Rising Stars?
Weddington’s roster brims with talent, producing players who dominate locally and attract national scouts.
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Aiden Harris – Linebacker (Class of 2026)
2024 Stats: 85 tackles, 10 sacks, 4A Championship Most Outstanding Defensive Player (2023).
Impact: A top-10 finalist for NC Mr. Football, Harris is a tackling machine with offers from Oregon, Auburn, and Notre Dame. -
Drew Harris – Linebacker (Class of 2026)
2024 Stats: 70 tackles, 3 interceptions.
Future: Aiden’s twin, equally ferocious, drawing interest from South Carolina and Tennessee. -
TJ Davis Jr. – Linebacker (Class of 2026)
Stats: Committed to Notre Dame, known for game-changing punt blocks.
Legacy: A leader in Weddington’s vaunted defense.
These prospects, paired with a balanced offense, make Weddington a nightmare for opponents.
What’s Weddington’s Practice Regimen?
Weddington’s success is built on a grueling yet strategic practice schedule:
Day |
Activity |
Time |
---|---|---|
Monday |
Film study, conditioning |
3:00 PM – 5:30 PM |
Tuesday |
Full pads, offensive sets |
3:00 PM – 6:00 PM |
Wednesday |
Full pads, defensive alignments |
3:00 PM – 6:00 PM |
Thursday |
Walkthrough, special teams |
3:00 PM – 5:00 PM |
Friday |
Game day – pre-game prep |
Varies |
Summer |
Strength training, 7-on-7 drills |
7:30 AM – 11:00 AM |
This regimen, compliant with NCHSAA rules, hones physicality and playbook mastery.
How Does Weddington Prep for Glory?
Weddington’s formula for success is a trifecta of coaching, training, and community spirit.
Coaching Mastery
Andy Capone’s player-centric philosophy empowers leaders like Aiden Harris to set the tone. His 100% graduation rate and 30+ college scholarship recipients since 2018 speak to his holistic approach.
Elite Training
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Offseason: Weightlifting and speed drills start in June, building explosive power.
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In-Season: Practices emphasize situational football—think 2-minute drills and red-zone defense.
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Film Analysis: Hours dissecting opponents’ tendencies give Weddington a tactical edge.
Community Passion
Warriors Stadium packs in 6,000+ fans per game. Tailgates, student sections, and local businesses sporting “Go Warriors” signs create an electric atmosphere.
Weddington’s Fiercest Rivalries
Rivalries fuel Weddington’s fire, with stakes that transcend the scoreboard.
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Weddington vs. Marvin Ridge
2024 Result: 31-14 win kept local bragging rights.
Why It Matters: Proximity and playoff history make this a must-watch clash. -
Weddington vs. Charlotte Catholic
History: The 2024 27-13 victory avenged past postseason losses.
Edge: Weddington’s linebackers often dictate the outcome.
How Can Fans Stay Connected?
Follow the Warriors with these resources:
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Live Streams: NFHS Network or Weddington Athletics YouTube.
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Scores: MaxPreps or Charlotte Observer updates.
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Social: X posts from @WeddingtonFB for real-time buzz.
Tips for Aspiring Warriors
Dream of wearing green and white? Here’s how to start:
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Play Early: Join middle school teams like Weddington MS.
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Stay Eligible: Maintain a 2.0 GPA per NCHSAA rules.
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Get Noticed: Attend Weddington’s summer camps to catch coaches’ eyes.
Why Weddington Football Matters
Weddington football is more than a game—it’s a cornerstone of Matthews’ identity. Their three state titles, NFL alumni like Will Shipley, and consistent excellence inspire the next generation. Every tackle, touchdown, and trophy strengthens a community that rallies around its Warriors.
Fun Fact
Weddington’s 2019 team set a school record, scoring 672 points in 16 games—an average of 42 points per game!
See Also: fballquery.com
Conclusion
The 2024 season fell one step short of a fourth state title, but Weddington High School football remains a beacon of excellence. With stars like Aiden and Drew Harris, a coach like Andy Capone, and a town that lives for Friday nights, the Warriors are poised for more championship runs. They’re not just playing football—they’re crafting a dynasty. Want to witness their next chapter? Grab a ticket, join the green wave, and cheer at Warriors Stadium. Go Warriors!