New Scott's Branch football head coach Patrick Fleming handling boys track as well

           Summerton – Patrick Fleming has been at Scott’s Branch High School for just a few months and has yet to serve a game as the school’s football head coach. However, he is in charge of the Eagles’ boys track and field team, and he is hoping this time will help build toward the upcoming 2024 football season.

           “We currently have seven guys on the track team as we rebuild for the future,” Fleming said. “Speed wins in track, just like in football. All sports are intertwined and coaching other sports helps you learn and grow. We are really looking to build a solid foundation across the board.”

           Fleming began working at Scott’s Branch in the spring semester after being named the football head coach in December of last year. He had worked at fellow Clarendon County School District school Manning since 2007, serving as the defensive coordinator for Monarchs head coach Reggie Kennedy the past three seasons.

           The Eagles had competed in six meets entering spring break. They have had three athletes improve their personal records since the start of the season. They are Nazaiah Richardson in the 100-meter dash, Joshua Smith in the 110 hurdles and Zion Thompson in the 400 dash.

           Fleming said Montrell Session, Jamarion Taylor and Christopher Barringer have had good performances as well.

“We’re looking to make a push in the lower state (meet),” Fleming said. “The program has a lot of potential, and with the help of Coach (Clifton) Bethune and Coach (Steve) Nelson, we look to build a strong program moving forward.”

WEATHER HINDERING GIRLS TRACK TEAM

The Scott’s Branch girls track team has only been able to compete in one meet prior to spring break due to weather conditions, but second-year head coach Tanika Bowman believes her team is moving in the right direction.

“As a whole, I am very impressed with the whole team,” said Bowman, who has 16 athletes. “These are a group of young ladies that believe in giving their all when it comes to competition. Ten of the young ladies on the team have never stepped foot on a track before, though when they compete you can never tell.”

Bowman said the 4x100-meter relay team of Emoni Sinkler, Saniya House, Ziaier Bryant and Tavashia Scott has been looking good. Also, Bryant and Sinkler have both performed well in the 100.

The remaining members of the team are Zoe Pugh, Caleah Dash, Azari Taylor, Kazhia Bowman, Katrease Pringle, Mariah Holliday, Zyhrietta Abraham, DiMeria Smith, Raki York, ZyCuria Holland, Saniya Simmons and Danashia Green.

“Three of my newcomers, Zoe Pugh, Caleah Dash, and Azari Taylor, will be my highlights next year,” Coach Bowman said. “I really do believe that they will stand out in whatever event they perform in.

“I am very proud of them all and it's a privilege and honor to work with them all.”