Sports
Hocking College Smacks Wright State in Home Opener
By: Max McDulin
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Hocking College had been looking for ways to increase interest in its school after five years of decline in enrollment, and one of the big changes this year was the addition of an athletics department. The new program could not have gotten off to a better start as the atmosphere at the very first home football game in the history of the Hocking College was quite the success. The Hocking College Hawks defeated the visiting Wright State Raiders club team 52-2.
The unity of the team, students and fans was on full display prior to the first snap. As the national anthem played, the voices of the community were raised high. Those in attendance joined in with each other to give a patriotic rendition of the national anthem. With an energetic crowd behind them, the Hawks jumped out to an early 7-0 lead on a three yard touchdown run by Kori Campbell. The first quarter saw little action other than the one long drive capped off by Campbell and Hocking College led 10-0.
The second quarter was the turning point of the game as it was host to a punishing Hocking College rushing attack, and what would be considered the play of the game. After three rushing touchdowns, one from Trent Mays and two from Jordan Jones, the Hawks led the Raiders 31-0.
Then, defensive lineman Zachary Payne had what will go down as one of the most memorable plays in his career. On a third and long he snuffed out a Wright State screen pass and leapt up into the air to make an incredible interception. The big man rumbled 25 yards to the end zone for a pick six that earned him a mob celebration from his teammates when he returned to the sideline. With Hocking College up 38-0, the game was essentially over by the half.
Coming out of the break, Trent Mays added an 11 yard touchdown run to put Hocking College up 45-0. One of Wright State’s only bright moments came at 3:20 to go in the third quarter, when a blocked punt resulted in a safety to make it 45-2. Rounding out the scoring was Jabree Lather as he punched it in from three yards out to make it 52-2.
The school could not have asked for a better way to start at home. After road wins against the Ohio Northern University JV Squad and Mount St. Joseph, the win against Wright State puts the new team at 3-0 to start the season.
Hocking College President Betty Young congratulated the squad after the win. “We are all proud of our team, and I know our students will be strong supporters throughout the season.” Next up for the Hawks is a road matchup against Kentucky Christian University JV on Monday, Sept. 21 at 4:30 p.m.