Darlington’s Hampton excited about All-American Bowl

DARLINGTON — For the second straight year, the Pee Dee will be represented in the Army All-American Bowl.

Darlington High School defensive back Victor Hampton received his official invitation and jersey on Tuesday in a ceremony at the school.

“It feels real good,” Hampton told WBTW. “I’ve been waiting for a while to make sure everything was still in place. To finally have this, I can’t wait for the game or the week of the game.”

Hampton, a transfer from Independence High School in Charlotte, N.C., had 50 tackles and 10 interceptions last year and was one of the most highly-recruited DBs in the country. He has five tackles and one interception in two games for the Falcons this year.

“(The experience) hasn’t really sunk in yet,” Hampton said. “I can’t really say what the best thing is right now, other than wearing this jersey.”

The All-American Bowl, which takes place Jan. 9 at noon in San Antonio, Texas, features some of the top high school talent in the country. Some notable alumni include Adrian Peterson, Vince Young, Reggie Bush and Tim Tebow.

West Florence’s Malliciah Goodman was selected last year.

“It’s obviously a tremendous honor for him, for his parents, the team and the school,” Falcons coach Justin Danner said. “Anytime you can earn national recognition, it’s a tremendous accomplishment.”

Hampton is looking forward to the high level of competition.

“It’s going to be a lot like the competion in college,” Hampton said. “So hopefully, this is the first step in a long career.”

Hampton is a gifted athlete, Danner said, but what separates him is his ability to go after the ball.

“He’s obviously got the size and the quickness to be a great defensive back, but he’s one of those kids who’s very aggressive when the ball is in the air,” Danner said. “He goes after the ball like a wide receiver, and always thinks he’s capable of making the play.”

Hampton has a number of scholarship offers now that his commitment to Florida has fallen through. Clemson, South Carolina and Tennessee are among the list.

“I don’t really have a top three or a top five right now,” Hampton said. “I’m still searching right now, and I haven’t been to too many places, so I don’t have too many teams on my list right now.”

— Digital journalist Conan Gasque contributed to this story.