Ten North Lenoir Football Players Baptized After Practice

Ten North Lenoir Football Players Baptized After Practice

LA GRANGE, N.C. — North Lenoir head football coach Justin Clark invited Neuse News Sports to practice Tuesday morning to witness a moment that went far beyond football.

After practice on July 28th, 10 North Lenoir football players who volunteered to participate were baptized by Coach Mike Fields in a large oval metal tub. The school principal, parents, coaches, teammates and community members, including Mike Jenkins, were present to support the athletes.

Clark, who was hired as North Lenoir’s head coach in February, said the moment reflected the mission he has established for the program.

“Our mission is real clear,” Clark said. “We’re going to build champions for life. That’s in the classroom, in the community and then win on the field.”

Clark said rebuilding North Lenoir football requires more than focusing on wins and losses.

“We’re going to build their hearts,” Clark said. “In order for us to get this program going in the right direction, we’ve got to touch these kids’ hearts.”

Clark credited Fields and Jenkins for helping pour into the players and teach them about life outside of football. He said the coaching staff wants to help the players grow into dependable men, husbands and fathers.

“One day, you’re going to be a father. One day, you’re going to be a husband,” Clark said. “How are you going to be? This is just step one.”

Clark said relationships and trust will be central to what North Lenoir builds under his leadership.

“The only way you’re going to build relationships is to get to know them,” Clark said. “We’re just going to try to build it the right way.”