Photograph: North Central High School Coach Jacob Carruth, gets an ice water bath after the team’s win over Thrive Academy. (Photograph courtesy of North Central High School.)
BOBBY ARDOIN
Editor/Consulting Writer
A lengthy and perhaps long overdue celebration erupted at North Central High Friday night as the Hurricanes hit the victory column for the first time in four years.
North Central erased a 23-game regular season losing dating back to the 2018 season, with the 54-6 victory over Thrive Academy.
“For our senior class this win is very special for them. No one that is on our team right now had ever won a football game at the school. This win is a credit to all the players who have been working hard. It’s been a tough road, but we are hoping to build a program and excitement for football,” said North Central head football coach Jacob Carruth.
The last victory for the ‘Canes prior to Friday night came on Sept. 7, 2018 when North Central defeated Mentorship Academy 20-12.
Carruth, who became the North Central head coach before the start of the 2021 season, said the win was a credit to the North Central players who refused to self-destruct in the third game of the season/.
“The kids played together. It was actually the first game that we’ve played where we haven’t beaten ourselves. We didn’t have any turnovers and we committed fewer penalties. That’s the first time that has happened,” Carruth said.
Carruth said the win could be viewed as a continuing step towards building a program.
“I think we have the talented athletes here in order to become successful. We are really close to doing that at this point,” Carruth said.
North Central quarterback Craig Malveaux threw for three touchdowns and rushed for another.
“(Malveaux) is a sophomore, but he is playing well for us right now. He passed for over 200 yards (against Thrive Academy) and he had another 100 rushing. (Malveaux) can be something special,” said Carruth said.
NCHS fullback-tailback Ian Campo, a senior, rushed for one touchdown and caught another pass for a score.
“This season really means something for (Campo). He lost his dad over the summer and he has been one of the leaders on this team for the past two seasons,” Carruth added.
Other touchdowns were scored by Ayden Minor (75 yard reception), while Jamarion Tanner and Charleston Brown also caught scoring throws.
Defensively Carruth pointed to strong safety J.T. Offord (fumble recovery), tackle Shane Mitchell (fumble recovery) and linebacker Dylan Robertson as providing standout performances.
What’s next? North Central hosts Ascension Christian Friday night.
Left: North Central High Coach Jacob Carruth give a hug of congratulations to Craig Malveaux following the team first win in four years Friday night. Right: Senior Ian Campo, #33, falls on the ground while getting congratulated by Coach Campo. (Photographs courtesy of North Central High School.)
