By no coincidence, Dutch Fork’s “Drive 4 5” state championships began with the arrival of Nick Pelham as defensive coordinator.

Along with the run of Class 5A titles, the Silver Foxes’ defense posted 14 shutouts in helping the team go 55-1-1 overall and a perfect 20-0 in the post-season.

It now appears starting next season, the 2 parties will be working on opposing sidelines in the same region (Region 5-5A). Lexington School District 1 was expected Tuesday to approve Pelham’s hiring as head football coach and athletics director at White Knoll High School at this past Tuesday’s meeting.

Pelham would replace Dean Howell, who stepped down after 8 seasons with the Timberwolves and was scheduled to serve on the Shrine Bowl coaching staff.

The Michigan native previously served as defensive coordinator at Westwood High School and Richland Northeast. During his 2nd stint at Dutch Fork, Pelham’s defenses limited opponents to 14.3 points per game.

Dutch Fork is already seeking a replacement for Pelham with an advertisement with the SC Athletic Coaches Association’s job board. School principal Ed Daugherty said a

School principal Ed Daugherty said a virtual press conference is set for Friday.

4 players, assistant picked for Shrine Bowl

The 83rd annual Shrine Bowl of the Carolinas were among the many cancelled fall athletic events in 2020.

This did not stop the coaching staffs from North and South Carolina from selecting the respective players for the planned Dec. 21, 2020 event at Gibbs Stadium.

The offense had the Dutch Fork tandem of quarterback Will Taylor and wide receiver Elijah Taylor.

The 2020 Lexington Chronicle Player of the Year, the Clemson University-bound Taylor threw for 2,237 yards and 21 touchdowns and rushed for 448 yards and 11 touchdowns.

Spencer had a team-high 858 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns to go with 44 receptions for the Silver Foxes.

Seleted to line upfront on the offensive line were North Carolina State signee Thornton Gentry of Chapin and Army signee Will Jeffcoat of Pelion.

Student trainer Lillian Spears of Gilbert High School was chosen as a SC Medical assistant.