Success abounded in the Catawba Valley in 2023, with Hickory winning its first football state championship in 27 years, the emergence of semi-professional soccer, and the retirement of two legendary wrestling coaches. Hickory's football team experienced a remarkable turnaround, going from a 4-8 record in 2019 to an undefeated regular season and a 3A state football championship win in 2023. The arrival of Hickory FC adds a new professional franchise to the city, while veteran wrestling coaches have retired, leaving a legacy of 14 state championships.

By the Numbers
  • Hickory won its first football state championship in 27 years
  • The team's quarterback broke the school's single-season passing record with 3,876 yards
  • Hickory FC soccer will begin its inaugural season in the National Premier Soccer League in May 2024
  • Retiring wrestling coaches Mike Carey and Eddy Clark have a combined 14 state championships
State of Play
  • Hickory: Celebrating their first football state championship in nearly three decades
  • Hickory FC: Preparing for their inaugural season in the National Premier Soccer League in May 2024
  • Retirement: Two legendary wrestling coaches, Mike Carey and Eddy Clark, retiring after 14 state championships
Bottom Line

2023 marked a year of tremendous sporting achievements, from Hickory's football triumph to the dawn of semi-professional soccer in the city, coupled with the retirement of two esteemed wrestling coaches. The impact of these milestones reverberates through the local sporting community, shaping the region's athletic landscape for years to come.