Athletic News

Flex Fridays for Student-Athletes

All athletes in grades 8–12 are invited to join Coach Sam Watford for Flex Fridays, a great opportunity to support recovery and mobility through guided yoga, Pilates, and stretching sessions. These workouts will be offered each Friday throughout June.

Summer Workouts for Student-Athletes

Building strength and teamwork early, more than 140 student-athletes participated in structured workouts this week in the fitness center, led by Mr. Sam Watford, Director of the Strength Program. Many teams, including basketball, cross-country, football, swimming, and volleyball, have begun summer conditioning. With dedicated athletes and coaches, the athletic program is as strong as ever.

Jones & Matthews WH Athletes of the Year

Molly Jones and Shawn Michael Matthews were named the Wilson Hall Athletes of the Year, an honor recognizing their exceptional leadership, dedication, and achievements across multiple sports. Molly was a member of the bowling, cross-country, track & field, and volleyball teams, while Shawn Michael was on the basketball, football, soccer, and speed & strength teams. Congratulations to these outstanding student-athletes!

Spring Athletic Recognition

Baseball
Benson Elmore ‘26: All-Star Team, All-State Team, All-Region Team
Carson Wilsey ‘25: All-Star Team, All-Region Team
Soccer
Abel Ayres ‘26: All-Star Team, All-Region Team
Thomas Creech ‘25: All-Star Team, All-Region Team
Shawn Michael Matthews ‘25: Region Player of the Year, All-Star Team, All-Region Team
Wilson Wells ‘25: All-Region Team
Mr. Jason Bartlett: All-Star Team Coach, Region Coach of the Year
Softball
Mary Paisley Geddings ‘28: All-Star Team, All-Region Team
Caroline Moorman ‘27: All-Star Team, All-Region Team
Lilly Grace Przybyla ‘28: All-State Team, All-Region Team
Marsha Kate Skey ‘29: All-Star Team, All-State Team, All-Region Team
Tennis
Andy Cseh ‘26: All-Region Team
Ryan Griffin ‘27: All-Region Team
Cole Warrick ‘29: All-Region Team
Boys Track
Jack Gratz ‘29: All-Region Team
Hugh Humphries ‘25: All-Region Team
Trip Hunt ‘28: All-Region Team
Owen Meyers ‘25: All-Region Team
Shep Vincent ‘28: All-Region Team
Ford Wilder ‘26: Region Athlete of the Year, All-Region Team
Gibb Wilder ‘28: All-Region Team
Girls Track
McKinley Bath ‘29: All-Region Team
Abby Bradley ‘25: All-Region Team
Bailey Flemming ‘28: All-Region Team
Clara Hulshizer ‘30: All-Region Team
Molly Jones ‘25: Region Athlete of the Year, All-Region Team
Logan Mims ‘25: All-Region Team
Grace Stewart ‘29: All-Region Team
Camryn Wilmes ‘25: All-Region Team
Bowen Zitzke ‘26: All-Region Team

Bonser Signs with U. of Richmond

Congratulations to Jackson Bonser on signing his National Letter of Intent to play football at the University of Richmond! This exciting milestone was celebrated with a special signing ceremony, attended by proud students, faculty, coaches, and family. Jackson's dedication, perseverance, and talent have led him to this remarkable achievement, and we look forward to seeing all he will accomplish at the next level.

Softball State Runners-Up

Congratulations to the varsity softball team for an outstanding season, finishing as the S.C. Independent School Association 4A state runners-up! With a final record of 17-15, this young team, led by just one senior and one junior, showed impressive growth, determination, and teamwork throughout the season. Under the guidance of head coach Mrs. Teresa Alexander, the Barons made a strong showing and demonstrated a promising foundation to build on in the coming years.

Shotgun Team 2nd in State

Congratulations to Lucy Hayes Mims, Grace McArthur, and Anna Lynn Skinner for their outstanding performance in the S.C. Independent School Association State Trap Competition, where they earned an impressive second-place finish as members of the Wilson Hall Shotgun Team. Coached by Mr. Brent Hiott, the team also excelled in the S.C. Department of Natural Resources State Competition, placing second in the Senior Varsity Ladies School Division for both skeet and trap. At the same competition, the team of Cat Bowman, Winnie Caughman, and Harper Rivers brought home second-place honors in both skeet and trap in the Middle School Ladies School Division. Additionally, this talented middle school trio won first place in the Ladies Intermediate First Year Division at the S.C. Youth Shooting Foundation meet. 

State Record & Gold Medals for Track

State champs with gold to show for it! The 4x800 relay team of Abel Ayres, Jack Gratz, Ben Rabon, and Caulder Williamson shattered the state record with a time of 8:12.75, and the 4x400 team of Jack, Joseph Hiott, Ben, and Caulder brought home another championship. Five gold medals, one unforgettable meet.

State Record Track Gold Medalists

Golden moments on the track!  Molly Jones raced to victory in the 400 hurdles, then teamed up with Abby Bradley, Bailey Flemming, and Ella Sill to capture gold in the 4x400 relay in a state record time of 4:04.93. Five gold medals and a championship finish to remember.

Girls Track Wins State Title

The track & field teams delivered an outstanding performance at the SCISA 4A State Championship Meet. The girls team captured the state title, winning two events and earning points from 23 top-eight finishes. The boys team also impressed, placing third overall and winning two events, with 14 athletes contributing points by finishing in the top eight. Both teams are led by Head Coach Mr. Rip Ripley.

Jones WLTX TV-19 Player of the Week

Molly Jones, a standout member of the track and field team, was named the WLTX TV-19 Player of the Week, an honor recognizing exceptional senior athletes who excel both on and off the field. Selected by her coach, Mr. Rip Ripley, Molly earned this prestigious award for her outstanding athletic achievements, high academic performance as an honors student, and commitment to her community. In addition to track and field, she also competed as a valued member of the bowling, cross-country, and volleyball teams. As part of the award, News 19 Sports presented Molly with a letter jacket and a plaque, and she was featured in a 30-second promotional announcement aired on the station and highlighted on the network’s website.

Tommy Jones Field Dedication Video

A standing-room-only crowd gathered for the dedication of Tommy Jones Field, including many former players who returned to honor their beloved coach. With family members present, the school officially dedicated the field in memory of Dr. Tommy Jones prior to the start of the varsity baseball game. Dr. Jones was a longtime leader of the Barons’ baseball program, guiding the team to five state championships and establishing a legacy of excellence both on and off the field. More than just a coach, he was a mentor, role model, and source of inspiration to generations of student-athletes. The naming of the field stands as a lasting tribute to his profound impact on the school and wider community.
VIDEO

Jones Featured Athlete

Molly Jones, a member of the track & field team, was chosen as The Sumter Item's The Grind featured athlete of the month. Follow this link to the article. 

Four Gold Medals at State Speed & Strength Meet

Wilson Hall hosted the S.C. Independent School Association Speed and Strength Meet, delivering an impressive performance that earned the Barons a runner-up finish across all classifications. The event showcased athleticism and power, with student-athletes competing in a series of physically demanding tests, including the 40-yard dash, shuttle run, broad jump, vertical jump, the bench press (185 lbs. for max reps), and the power clean lift.

The Barons were led by four gold medalists, each finishing first in their respective weight divisions: Milling Galloway ’26, Andrew Howle ’26, Shawn Michael Matthews ’25, and Shep Vincent ’28. These standout performances highlighted the depth of talent and preparation within the program.

In the 181–190 pound division, Milling earned top honors by winning the shuttle run (4.22 seconds) and bench press (24 reps), while placing 2nd in both the 40-yard dash and vertical leap, and 3rd in the power clean. Andrew dominated the 236 pound and up division, winning four out of six events—40-yard dash (4.84), vertical leap (36”), bench press (29 reps), and power clean (280 lbs.)—and placing 2nd in the broad jump and shuttle run. Competing in the 206–220 pound division, Shawn Michael secured gold by winning the broad jump (9’5”) and shuttle run (4.31), while placing 2nd in the 40-yard dash and vertical jump, 3rd in the power clean, and 4th in the bench press. In the 130 pounds and under division, eighth grader Shep impressed with wins in the 40-yard dash (4.96), bench press (23 reps), and shuttle run (4.59), along with 2nd-place finishes in the broad and vertical jumps, and 3rd in the power clean.

Additional top finishers included Walker Wilson ’26, who placed 2nd in his division, and Cameron Wilsey ’28, who took 3rd. Contributing valuable points for the team were Nehemiah Dinkins ’28, Nolan Gooch ’28, Michael Hunter ’28, Alex Johnson ’28, and Ford Wilder ’26. The team is coached by Mr. Sam Watford ’16 and Mr. Kurt Wilson, whose leadership and training played a key role in the Barons' success. With strong performances across all weight classes and grade levels, Wilson Hall’s showing at the SCISA Speed and Strength Meet reflects the hard work, discipline, and competitive spirit of its student-athletes.

Sporting Clays State Champions

Several members of the shooting sports team earned top honors, bringing home trophies from recent state competitions. The team of Cat Bowman, Winnie Caughman, and Harper Rivers claimed the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) Ladies Middle School Sporting Clays State Championship, showcasing their exceptional skill and teamwork. Additionally, the team of Grace McArthur, Lucy Mims, and Anna Lynn Skinner delivered an impressive performance, securing second place in both the S.C. Independent School Assoc. State Sporting Clays Championship and the SCDNR Varsity Ladies Sporting Clays Championship.

Special Winter Athletic Recognition

Boys Basketball
Knox Buxton ‘25 - All-Star Team
Thomas Creech ‘25 - Farm Bureau Heart of a Champion Player of the Month
Braedon Curtis ‘25 -  Farm Bureau Heart of a Champion Player of the Month
Hugh Humphries ‘25 - Region Player of the Year, All-Region Team
Shawn Michael Matthews ‘25 - All-Region Team, The Sumter Item The Grind Featured Athlete of the Month, The Sumter Item Athlete of the Week
Mr. Rip Ripley - Region Coach of the Year
Ford Wilder ‘26 - All-Star Team, All-Region Team
Girls Basketball
Emma Howle ‘25 - Farm Bureau Heart of a Champion Player of the Month
Grace McArthur ‘28 - Farm Bureau Heart of a Champion Player of the Month
Logan Mims ‘25 - All-Region Team
Caroline Moorman ‘27 - All-Star Team
Lilly Grace Przybyla ‘28 - All-Star Team, All-Region Team
Boys Bowling
Carson Geddings ‘26: All-State Team
Girls Bowling
Addie Geddings ‘31: All-State Team
 

Matthews Athlete of the Week

Shawn Michael Matthews, a member of the basketball team, was voted the Athlete of the Week by the readers of The Sumter Item. 

Matthews Scores 1,000th Point

Shawn Michael Matthews received special recognition for reaching an incredible milestone by scoring his 1,000th career point during the game on January 27th. In honor of this achievement, he was presented with the game ball, marking a proud and memorable moment in his basketball career.

Bowling Teams Win State Championship

Baron Bowling dominated the lanes at the SCISA State Bowling Tournament in Columbia, bringing home the state championship titles for both the boys' and girls' teams! The boys' team, consisting of Luke Banar, Luke Bartlett, Carson Geddings, Maddox Moye, and Stirling Tindal, delivered an outstanding performance to claim the championship. The girls' team, featuring Anna DuBose, Addie Geddings, Molly Jones, McKenzie Gray Mills, and Camryn Wilmes, also showcased their skill and determination to secure the state title. Under the leadership of Coach Curtis Helms, both teams demonstrated exceptional talent and teamwork, making it a historic night for Baron Bowling!

State Champion Basketball Teams Recognized

Wilson Hall proudly welcomed the members and coaches of the state champion basketball teams from 1977, 1978, 1980, and 2000 to campus for a special recognition. Prior to the varsity boys' game in the Nash Student Center, these distinguished athletes were honored for their achievements and contributions to the school's rich athletic history. To celebrate the occasion, the Development Office hosted a reception, providing an opportunity for former players and coaches to reunite and reminisce about their championship seasons.

Humphries Scores 1,000th Point

Hugh Humphries reached a significant milestone in his basketball career by scoring his 1,000th career point during the Barons' victory over Hilton Head Christian on January 17th. To celebrate this achievement, he was honored with a special game ball in front of a packed gym at the Nash Student Center. The presentation took place before a varsity basketball game, with teammates, coaches, family and fans applauding his dedication and talent on the court. 

Nine Recognized by Sumter Touchdown Club

Nine members of the varsity football team were recognized at the Sumter Touchdown Club Banquet for their outstanding achievements on and off the field. Andrew Segars received the prestigious Academic Scholar Award for Wilson Hall, highlighting his excellence in academics. Thomas Creech, Owen Meyers, and Carson Wilsey were honored with a merit scholarship for their hard work and dedication. Additionally, Owen, Carson, Jackson Bonser, Milling Galloway, Cooper Scott, Ford Wilder, and Walker Wilson were named to the All-Area Team, a testament to their exceptional performance throughout the season.

Matthews Featured Athlete

Follow link for feature about senior Shawn Michael Matthews.

Special Fall Athletic Recognition

Cheerleading
Josie Jackson ‘25: WACH Fox Scholar Athlete of the Week
Boys Cross-Country
Abel Ayres ‘27: All-Region Team
Trip Hunt ‘28: All-State Team, All-Region Team
Ben Rabon ‘26: All-State Team
Caulder Williamson ‘27: All-State Team, Region Runner of the Year, All-Region Team, The Sumter Item Athlete of the Week
Girls Cross-Country
Mary Foley ‘28: All-Region Team
Molly Jones ‘25: All-State Team, S.C. Independent School Association Athlete of the Week, Region Runner of the Year, All-Region Team
Mary Ellen Thorne ‘26: All-State Team, All-Region Team
Emmie Williamson ‘29: All-State Team, All-Region Team
Football
Mr. Adam Jarecki: Region Coach of the Year
Jackson Bonser ‘25: All-Star Team, All-Region Team, Sumter Touchdown Club Special Teams Player of the Week (3), Sumter Touchdown Club All-Area Team, The Sumter Item All-Independent Team
Milling Galloway ‘26: All-Star Team, All-Region Team, Sumter Touchdown Club Offensive Player of the Week, Sumter Touchdown Club All-Area Team, The Sumter Item All-Independent Team
Andrew Howle ‘26: All-Star Team, Sumter Touchdown Club Defensive Player of the Week, The Sumter Item All-Independent Team
Owen Meyers ‘25: All-Star Team, Region Defensive Player of the Year, All-Region Team, The Sumter Item’s The Grind Featured Athlete of the Month, Sumter Touchdown Club All-Area Team, The Sumter Item All-Independent Team
Ben McLaurin ‘26: All-Star Team, All-Region Team, The Sumter Item All-Independent Team
Harris Naylor ‘26: All-Star Team, All-Region Team, The Sumter Item All-Independent Team
Cooper Scott ‘25: All-Star Team, All-Region Team, Sumter Touchdown Club Lineman of the Week, Sumter Touchdown Club All-Area Team, The Sumter Item All-Independent Team 
Ford Wilder ‘26: All-Star Team, All-Region Team, Sumter Touchdown Club All-Area Team, The Sumter Item All-Independent Team
Carson Wilsey ‘25: All-Star Team, All-Region Team, Sumter Touchdown Club All-Area Team, The Sumter Item All-Independent Team
Walker Wilson ‘26: All-Star Team, All-Region Team, The Sumter Item All-Independent Team
Golf
Mary Katherine Dutcher ‘27: Region Player of the Year
Swimming
Jacob Hewett ‘29: All-State Team
Logan Schumacher ‘25: All-State Team
Tennis
Jane McAdams ‘25: All-Region Team
Claudia Rhodus ‘27: All-State Team, All-Region Team
Volleyball
McKinley Bath ‘29: All-Star Team, All-Region Team
Olivia Cogswell ‘25: All-State Team, All-Star Team, All-Region Team
Molly Jones ‘25: S.C. Independent School Association Athlete of the Week
McKenzie Gray Mills ‘25: All-Region Team

Football State Runners-Up

The varsity football team’s season came to a close in the 3A state championship game as runners-up, after mounting an impressive comeback that fell just short with a final score of 21-24. This team has much to be proud of: an 11-2 record this season and a senior class that wraps up its varsity career with a 31-7 record. 

The Barons advanced to the championship game at Charleston Southern University for the second consecutive year after defeating John Paul II Catholic School 25-14 in the quarterfinal and Hilton Head Christian School 21-9 in the semifinal. School spirit soared throughout the season, fueled by the unwavering support of the Baron fans and the varsity cheerleading squad. The head coach for the team is Mr. Adam Jarecki.
 

Richardson Speaks at Football Devotion

Former New York Yankee and local sports legend Bobby Richardson inspired our football team at this morning's devotion, the final one of the season before tomorrow's state championship game. Players, coaches, and cheerleaders came together for prayer, breakfast, and fellowship to start the day with purpose and unity.

Howle & Scott Touchdown Club Players of the Week

Andrew Howle was selected as the Defensive Player of the Week and Cooper Scott the Offensive Lineman of the Week by the Sumter Touchdown Club.

Williamson Athlete of the Week

Caulder Williamson, a member of the boys cross-country team, was voted the Athlete of the Week by the readers of The Sumter Item.

Boys Cross-Country State Champions, Girls 2nd in State

The boys cross-country team won the S.C. Independent School Assoc. 4A State Championship with two runners selected for the All-State Team for finishing in the top 10, Caulder Williamson - 2nd and Trip Hunt - 8th. Also among the top five scorers for the Barons were Abel Ayres - 11th, Ben Rabon - 17th and Gavin Getz - 33rd. Led by Mr. Reid Schwartz, head coach, the team also won the Region Championship and finished with a record of 125-14.

The girls team placed second in the state competition with three runners named to the All-State Team: Molly Jones - 5th, Mary Ellen Thorne - 9th and Emmie Williamson - 10th. Also scoring for the Barons were Mary Foley - 16th and Jane Foley - 24th. Also coached by Mr. Schwartz, the Region Championship team earned a record of 87-22.  

Hewett Champion, Team 3rd in State Swim Meet

Jacob Hewett won two gold medals in the SCISA 4A State Swim Meet, winning the 200 individual medley (school record of 2:00.35) & the 100 breaststroke. He was also on the 200 freestyle relay team that placed second and the 400 freestyle relay team that finished third. In addition to Jacob, the following swimmers made the podium to receive medals: (silver) 200 freestyle relay team (Levi Jiang, Logan Schumacher, Banks Smith); (bronze) Cliff Bath - 100 freestyle and the 400 freestyle relay team (Cliff, Logan, Stirling Tindal) with a school record of 3:32.67. The team, which earned a season record of 67-3, placed third out of the 13 teams competing. A total of 21 swimmers from the boys and girls teams qualified for the state meet, with 10 qualifying for every event. Mrs. Jeanna Mahr was the head coach for both teams.
 

Galloway Touchdown Club Player of the Week

Milling Galloway was named the Sumter Touchdown Club Offensive Player of the Week.

Jackson WACH Fox Scholar Athlete

Josie Jackson ‘25 was named the WACH Fox Scholar Athlete of the Week on August 30 as part of the Friday Night Rivals football season. For this program, the South Carolina National Guard recognizes an exceptional student athlete from each participating school with a plaque presentation prior to each game.
 

Baron Media Day

Always an exciting day in our lower school, Baron Media Day promotes school spirit and provides positive interaction between the older and younger students on campus. Senior fall athletes visited students in 1st-5th grades during lunch, posing for photos with them and distributing autographed photographs. Mr. Rip Ripley, Assistant Athletic Director, coordinated the event. 

Bonser Touchdown Club Player of the Week

Jackson Bonser '25 was named the Special Teams Player of the Week by the Sumter Touchdown Club on August 30. Jackson, who was accompanied by Mr. Adam Jarecki, head football coach, was introduced and presented a plaque at a breakfast held at the Sumter Parks and Recreation Building. The award is sponsored by SAFE Federal Credit Union and Farmers Telephone Cooperative. 

Meyers Featured Athlete

Follow link for feature article about senior Owen Meyers.

Jones State Athlete of the Week

Senior Molly Jones was selected as the Athlete of the Week on August 26 by the South Carolina Independent School Athletic Association, which has 125 member schools. Molly is a member of the cross-country and volleyball teams.

Volleyball Team Earns National Recognition

For the ninth consecutive year, the varsity volleyball team was selected as an American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) Academic All-American Team. The AVCA, in partnership with the United States Marine Corps, recognizes volleyball programs across the country in high school and college that excel in academics as well as on the court.

Baron Athletes Recognized at The Bobbys

Wilson Hall students won four awards at the Bobby Awards held at a red-carpet gala at the Sumter Opera House in June. The recipients were voted for by the readers of The Sumter Item. Clark Kinney ‘24 won the award for Best Male Athlete, and winning awards for their individual sports were Rylee Bath ‘24 (volleyball), Molly Jones ‘25 (girls track & field), and Caulder Williamson ‘27 (boys cross-country).

In addition to the four winners, Wilson Hall had nine nominees: Jackson Bonser ‘25 (soccer), Daniel Burton ‘24 (boys basketball), Hugh Humphries ‘25 (boys basketball), Mr. Adam Jarecki (coach),  Dylan Jones ‘24 (football), Aubrey Payne ‘24 (female athlete), Blake VanPatten ‘24 (baseball), Emmie Williamson ‘29 (girls cross-country), and varsity football (team). 

The program, inspired by ESPN's The Espy Awards, celebrates the best in Sumter-area sports. The Bobby is named for Sumter sports legend Bobby Richardson, the former World Series MVP for the New York Yankees.