Two Pee Dee Academy players headed for All-Star game

Four years ago, Pee Dee Academy’s football team was coming off of a winless year and was in need of help.

So, Coach Lon Spivey went searching ... and pulled two freshmen off the junior varsity squad to aid in the cause of reviving a struggling squad.

The first year produced two wins, but now, three years, 24 wins and a conference championship later, Ed Stephens and Arnett James Jr. are headed for the Oasis Shrine All-Star Game in Orangeburg on Nov. 24.

“Everyone thought it would only be downhill after the rough seasons and we were so young, but everyone stuck together and did what they had to do to win,” Stephens said. “It was hard coming into a situation where no one expects you to win. I can’t believe how magical the last three years have been.”

And James echoed his teammate’s words, “We might not have had all of the talent, but our work ethic got us through. The seniors from the team of two years ago really motivated us and believed we could do it.”

According to Coach Spivey, the reason for their selection is simple. “They are two of the hardest-working, most dependable players I have had in all my time coaching. They are leaders and their determination and willingness to work is a huge reason for our success in recent years.”

Stephens, a senior, rushed for 1,089 yards and 11 touchdowns on the season. After missing the first game of the season, he came back very strong and took the rushing reigns by the horns. His hard work in the weight room over the summer payed off as he pounded linemen for the short yardage gains. And, the quickness and agility gained from off-season work payed off as well, as Stephens would time and again take the ball for long runs that kept the defenses’ heads spinning. Stephens would also account for 20 tackles on the defensive side of the ball.

“I have to say ‘thank you’ to the coaches for sticking with us and believing in us,” Stephens said. “And, I also want to give thanks to Matt Ham, who worked with me in the weight room and really showed me what I could do if I worked hard.”

James, too, would take defenses for a ride on many occasions. Using his 6-3, 220 pound frame, he would bull his way through for 317 yards on the ground and two scores.

He would also catch nine passes from his tight end position, taking four for scores and gaining a total of 243 yards.

His intimidating presence in the middle kept opposing offenses running the other direction as he racked up 47 tackles on defense. James, who also put in long hours to succeed, wanted to thank the entire team, his parents and his trainer Clayton Holmes; and both thanked the entire community of Pee Dee Academy.

“Even after we were struggling, the fans were there. The kids would be coming up to you, looking up to you and wearing your number on their jersey. You could not help but be motivated and want to do well,” James stated. “The last three years just go to show that if you keep the faith, you can do anything.

Our football team is like a close-knit family, a brotherhood. You are on the sideline and you see your teammates who have graduated behind you supporting, and that means everything.”

And to the coaches and to the school, seeing you succeed means everything, too. “The leadership of these two and the entire senior class will be missed. This group and these two deserve a lot of credit for what they have accomplished,” Coach Spivey reflected.

Both athletes have gotten looks from numerous state colleges to continue playing football at a higher level and we know they will represent their team and school well in the All-Star game and past graduation.

So, congratulations, guys. A monumental achievement and one well-earned. A great year all the way around for you and for Pee Dee football.