St. Stephens sophomore tailback Izzy Payne eclipses 1,000-yard rushing mark, earns all-conference nod for 1st time in 2025

HICKORY, N.C. — An athlete’s success does not develop overnight. His or her craft must be harnessed to its full potential in a gradual process. St. Stephens High School sophomore Izzy Payne displayed his growth with the varsity football program the last two seasons. “My love for football came from my dad; he would show … Continue reading St. Stephens sophomore tailback Izzy Payne eclipses 1,000-yard rushing mark, earns all-conference nod for 1st time in 2025 →

Junior tailback Brycen Gaither embraces use as an all-purpose athlete in St. Stephens’ climb to success on football field

HICKORY, N.C. — In almost any contact sport, there are position specialists and then there are utility athletes, meaning one can be placed in multiple positions as a jack-of-all trades and thrive. St. Stephens High School junior Brycen Gaither has been one of those latter student-athletes, particularly on the football field. Gaither, a dual-threat offensive … Continue reading Junior tailback Brycen Gaither embraces use as an all-purpose athlete in St. Stephens’ climb to success on football field →