CFNN Reporters AbbiKate Daughtry and Rachel Leonard

The Cape Fear High School Homecoming game is a longstanding tradition that each member of the Colt Community looks forward to during the fall. It’s not just a game, it’s a week of spirit, unity, royalty, and reunion for all those who love Cape Fear deeply. To lead up to the first conference game of the season, which was the homecoming game, the students at CF had a spirit week, Powderpuff game, Pep Rally, Homecoming Parade, the crowning of the new queen and king, and after the game, the Homecoming dance. There’s not much that can compare to HOCO week at Cape Fear, and securing the first conference win on homecoming was the cherry on top. 

To kick off the game, the 2025 Homecoming court was recognized. The King Nominees were Jackson Bailey, A’darius Harris, Isaiah Jackson, Brady Kennedy, Aydin Leonard, Mekhi Papillon, Brandon Patton, Nick Serbio, Ja’keal Williams, and Chosen Wynn. The Queen Nominees were Brianna Birdlow, Kayla M. Carter, Abigail Cook, AbbiKate Daughtry, Billie Faith Fulcher, Kayleigh Jacobs, Tabitha Newlin, Alyssa Osornio, Amelia Osornio, and Kindley West. The results from the coronation were; 2nd Runner up; Aydin Leonard  (stand in: Ashton Leonard) and Billie Faith Fulcher, First Runner Up was Jackson Bailey and Abigail Cook, and your 2025 King and Queen are A’darius Harris and AbbiKate Daughtry. Congratulations to each student! 

After crowning, when the sun had set, the lights came on, and the smoke was flaring out of the tunnel, the Cape Fear Football team ran out with pride as they were ready to kickoff the first conference game. 

After the start of the game, the Colts wasted no time with putting points up on the board. Junior RB Tai Phillips made his triumphant return, playing for the first time since pre-preason as he was out with an injury, and came  back hitting the ground running (quite literally). Phillips scored the first touchdown of the night, with a rushing touchdown picking up 48 yards. His speed and play-making IQ illustrated during the game makes it a no brainer why he is such a hot commodity in the football community. 

“I feel like I did pretty good during last Friday’s game. I did what I had to do for the team as they depend on me, and I depend on them; we got it done. The rest of the season I am focusing on doing what needs to be done for the team to win, being more of a team player, and having fun while doing it because I do have a short season. But I’m going 100% in everything I do,” said Phillips. 

Keeping the momentum alive and well, Quarterback Geronimo Sanchez connected with Senior WR Chosen Wynn for a touchdown. The Senior WR had 1 reception for a total of 38 yards. With Sanchez’ throwing accuracy and Wynn’s promising abilities to be a target in the endzone, the pair work beautifully with each other, and during the Lumberton game that’s proven oh so true.

Geronimo Sanchez, a senior, was 4 of 7 for 94 yards on the night. Sanchez not only has an accurate arm, but can detect routes and make it to the endzone himself. On the night, he had 9 rushes for 37 yards and a touchdown by running the ball. His versatility on the field makes him dangerous in the 910. Trailing in the steps of QB, Sophomore Quarterback Tommy (Tres) Daughtry appeared during Varsity play, with an accuracy of 1 of 1 for 7 yards. The next generation of Cape Fear Football is making strides. Iron sharpens Iron! 

Junior Wide Receiver Landon Underwood continues to make his impact in Colt Country.  Underwood had 3 receptions during the game for 56 yards. Game after game the junior wide receiver gets the ball moving down the field ultimately helping the Colts lock in their win. The Colts can always count on Landon to not only complete passes, but gain some yardage for the next play.

Cape Fear Football had a fire under their feet on Friday night. Play after play the Colts were making smart moves that ultimately helped them lock in their win. On the more defensive side of the field, the Sophomore “Mike” linebacker Markel Hurley stamped his name on the endzone after he scored a Pick-6. After a mid-season switch, and becoming a new middle linebacker for the Colts, he has not taken his role lightly and the hard work behind the scenes has paid off. His fellow linebackers offer him support with backfield coverage, protecting the line and taking anyone down who comes close. 

The Colts were determined to not let the Pirates make it to the endzone. Cape Fear was able to make it through Lumberton’s O-line gaining multiple sacks, as well as collecting Tackle for Losses throughout the game. These defensive efforts came from Senior Darren Logan, Sophomore Jackson Nauman, Senior Aydin Leonard, and Junior Jackson Carte. 

Cape Fear Football came into their first conference game ready to win and they remain ready to keep the momentum going into the weeks ahead. This week, the Colts will be on the road to Purnell Swett to battle it out with the Rams. Make the drive and cheer on your favorite team of the 910 as they strive to continue to improve their record. The Colts currently sit at 5-1, but we know the future has much more to come for the boys in the blue and gold.