Heart, Hustle, and a Dream Realized: Gage Howard Signs With Mount Olive

Senior standout fulfills lifelong dream after years of dedicated work

South Lenoir senior Gage Howard has officially committed and signed to play baseball at the University of Mount Olive, turning years of relentless work into a lifelong dream realized.

Across 47 varsity games, Howard has been one of the area’s most consistent producers, hitting .401 with 61 hits, 47 runs, 49 RBIs, and an impressive .480 OBP and .520 SLG in 178 plate appearances. But the achievement that matters most to him isn’t measured in numbers — it’s the chance to keep playing the game he loves.

“I am really excited, I’m just thankful for this opportunity,” Howard said. “It has always been a dream of mine to go play college baseball.”

That dream was built long before his South Lenoir career began. Howard’s commitment to the grind — even when no one was watching — is what separated him.

“I have worked every day, every night, whether it was over the summer or over the winter, whether it was by myself or with my teammates,” he said.

His parents fueled that journey from the start, supporting him through endless practices, travel ball seasons, and long weekends on the road.

“They have always been willing to pay for my travel ball expense, equipment and very supportive of me the whole way,” Howard said.

A Father’s Perspective

Gage’s father, Shawn Howard, offered a few words that captured just how meaningful this moment is for their family — especially after watching the work behind the scenes.

“I’m super proud of him,” Shawn said. “We’ve seen Gage grow so much and continuously challenge himself throughout the years.”

One trait he admires most about his son is what coaches across the program have echoed: Gage’s nonstop desire to get better.

“He has a drive every day,” Shawn said. “He’s hitting in a cage somewhere, always putting in the work.”

And as a former South Lenoir player himself, Shawn said the moment carries a special kind of pride.

“Seeing my son now have that same opportunity I had, with the support of this community… it’s awesome.”

A Mother’s Pride

Gage’s mom, Traci Howard, shared a heartfelt reflection on watching her son grow into the player and person he is today.

“I’ve watched Gage play baseball since he was 4 years old,” she said. “He had that same sparkle in his eyes then when it came to playing as he does now. The practices, long weekends, and mama stress at tense games has been worth every second to see him reach his dream.”

For Traci, it’s about more than baseball.

“I am so proud of him, not just because of playing baseball but because of the young man he has become.”

A Dream Just Getting Started

Howard now heads to Mount Olive with years of preparation behind him and a work ethic built for the next level. South Lenoir will remember him for his production and his leadership — Mount Olive will soon get to know him for both.

And for Gage, his family, and the South Lenoir community, his signing marks not an ending but the beginning of the next step in a lifelong dream.