Bear Tracks 2024 Season Wrap-Up

The calendar has flipped, the echoes of Friday nights have faded, and as 2025 begins, it’s time to step back and marvel at the whirlwind that was the 2024 BHP Bears football season. This isn’t your typical Bear Tracks. This is a reflection—an homage—to a season that wasn’t just played but authored like a script. Each game was a chapter, every player a character, and together they wrote a story equal parts grit, glory, and triumph.

So, where to begin? Let’s start where all great sports stories do—with the highlights. Narrowing this season down to five defining moments felt like trying to pick a favorite play from an endless highlight reel. But here they are: five snapshots that capture the magic, the madness, and the magnificence of a team that refused to be ordinary.



Five Major Highlights



This was the season Bear Nation had circled on its calendar for years, the one whispered about years before. The expectations were sky-high, and for good reason—these Bears weren’t just here to play. They were here to redefine what it meant to be dominant. They delivered a symphony of brilliance: record-breaking feats, defensive clinics, an offense that seemed born of video game physics. This was no ordinary season; this was history in the making.

Whittling it down to five highlights feels almost criminal—like asking which of Picasso’s brushstrokes mattered most. But here it is, my best attempt to capture the essence of a season we’ll still be talking about decades from now.

1. Laurens Game – A Record-Breaking Night

Sometimes, a football game feels less like a contest and more like a declaration of dominance. That’s exactly what the Bears’ game against Laurens was—a mic drop of a performance.

Marquise Henderson’s historic night was the centerpiece. With 4,942 career rushing yards already in his sights, it wasn’t a question of if he’d break the record—it was when. That moment came in the second quarter, a simple five-yard run up the gut that held the weight of years of blood, sweat, and tears. The celebration was short-lived, not diminishing the accomplishment, but a nod to the understanding that more was to be accomplished this season.

But that was just one thread in the tapestry of destruction. The Bears didn’t just win; they dismantled Laurens with surgical precision. The defense was ferocious, smothering Laurens so thoroughly that they ended the game with negative yardage in the second half. Kylan Dixon turned in a performance for the ages, tying the school record for tackles-for-loss in a game.

When the final whistle blew, the score read 55-6. But what it really said was this: The Bears had arrived, and they weren’t leaving anytime soon.

2. Region Championship vs. Walhalla – Back-to-Back Titles

Winning a region championship is hard. Winning back-to-back titles? That’s when you know you’re onto something special. The Bears’ matchup against Walhalla was billed as a clash of titans. It turned out to be more of a sparring session, with BHP throwing all the punches.

From the opening whistle, the Bears imposed their will. Their first two drives were masterpieces of efficiency, marching down the field and punching in touchdowns like clockwork. The offensive line looked like a well-oiled machine, creating holes you could drive a truck through.

But the fireworks didn’t stop there. Special teams stole the show in the second quarter. Tajeh Watson-Martin’s 72-yard punt return touchdown was the kind of electrifying play that makes you spill your popcorn. Not to be outdone, Henderson followed it up with a record-setting 97-yard punt return touchdown that left Walhalla’s defenders grasping at air.

And the defense? Forget about it. They didn’t just shut Walhalla down; they rendered them inert, forcing punt after punt. By the time the dust settled, the scoreboard read 49-0. The Bears had not only secured the region championship but had done so with a swagger that left no doubt about their status as the team to beat.

3. Powdersville Playoff Victory – Clutch Performances Under Pressure

Every championship run has its moment of truth, the game where a team’s mettle is tested. For the Bears, that game first came against Powdersville in the third round of the playoffs.

The first half was a slog. The Bears found themselves trailing 14-7, their usually potent offense stymied by a relentless Powdersville defense. Fans in the stands murmured nervously. Was this the game where the dream would end?

The Bears answered with a resounding no. The second half was a masterclass in resilience. A methodical, 12-play, 81-yard drive tied the game, and then came the turning point: Jakyri Anderson’s pick-six. The crowd erupted as Anderson streaked down the sideline, flipping the script in one spectacular play. The defense, led by Justin Lathon, took over from there. Lathon’s five sacks were record-setting, each one a nail in Powdersville’s coffin. Henderson, always ready for the spotlight, capped off the win with an interception return touchdown of his own.

The final score was 35-14, but it felt bigger than that. It was a statement: The Bears could take a punch and still come out swinging.

4. Mountain View Prep Battle – A Historic Victory

If there’s one game that will be talked about for decades, it’s this one. The Upper State Championship against Mountain View Prep wasn’t just a football game; it was a clash of cultures, styles, and sheer willpower.

MVP came in undefeated, their roster littered with blue-chip talent. Jaylen McGill, their star running back, had offers from every major college program you could name. Quarterback Bryson Drummond was a maestro, with over 6,000 career passing yards to his name. On paper, MVP looked unstoppable.

But games aren’t played on paper.

The first half didn’t go the Bears’ way. Henderson, the team’s rock all season, fumbled twice, leaving BHP trailing 16-7 at halftime. Most teams would have folded. Instead, the Bears came out of the locker room like a team possessed.

The defense was otherworldly, shutting MVP out in the second half. Colby Bates became a one-man turnover machine, snagging two crucial interceptions. Henderson, determined to atone for his earlier mistakes, broke loose for an 81-yard touchdown run that brought the house down.

When the final whistle blew, the scoreboard read 30-22. It was the Bears’ first Upper State Championship in 20 years, a game that will forever hold a place in Bear Nation lore.

5. Oceanside Collegiate State Championship – Perseverance in Adversity

The state championship was supposed to be the culmination of a dream season. Instead, it became a lesson in resilience.

When quarterback Noah Thomas went down with a broken collarbone late in the first half, the Bears found themselves in uncharted territory. Trailing 21-7 at halftime, with their passing game effectively erased, the odds looked insurmountable.

But these Bears didn’t know how to quit. Henderson took direct snaps, channeling his inner Wildcat quarterback. A gritty Lathon touchdown run and a field goal off KJ Miles’ interception brought the Bears within striking distance, 21-17.

Oceanside adjusted, stacking the box to stifle the Bears’ ground game. In the end, the final score was 35-17, but that didn’t tell the full story. What the Bears showed in that second half was heart, determination, and an unwillingness to go quietly into the night.

This game, their first state championship appearance in 20 years, was more than a loss. It was a testament to the team’s character, a reminder of what makes football—and life—so compelling: the fight, the grit, and the belief that anything is possible.


This season wasn’t just about wins and losses. It was about setting a standard, a reminder of what’s possible when talent, preparation, and heart collide. These Bears didn’t just meet expectations—they shattered them. And Bear Nation will be telling its story for years to come.



Awards



This season was nothing short of extraordinary—a tale of grit, determination, and outright domination. But while the team as a whole operated like a finely tuned symphony, individual notes of brilliance shone through. The Bears didn’t just compete; they conquered, with many players earning well-deserved recognition for their exceptional contributions.

Now, let’s roll out the red carpet and shine the spotlight on these award-winning Bears. (If I accidentally left someone out, forgive me—I was working with a mountain of stats and accolades here, and even my trusty notepad has its limits!)

Player Award
Marquise Henderson South Carolina Mr. Football Finalist
3A Upper State Offensive Player of the Year
Co-Anderson County Touchdown Club Player of the Year
Region Player of the Year
Oliver Marett 3A Upper State Lineman of the Year
Anderson Area Touchdown Club Lineman of the Year
All Region Linemen of the Year
Christian Bridwell 3A Upper State Special Teams Player of the Year
Noah Thomas All Region Offensive Player of the Year
Russell Blackston Region Coach of the Year



Player Award
Marquise Henderson All-State (all classifications)
Oliver Marett All-State (all classifications)
Justin Lathon All-State (3A)
Kylan Dixon All-State (3A)
Tye Kelly All-State (3A)
Tajeh Watson-Martin All-State (3A)
KJ Miles All-State (3A)
Christian Bridwell All-State (3A)
Keylan Dixon All-State (3A)
Eli Satterfield All-State (3A)
Noah Thomas All-State (3A)



All-Region (Region 1 3A)
Noah Thomas James Moore Eli Satterfield
Tajeh Watson-Martin Marquise Henderson Justin Lathon
MJ Earle Oliver Marett Keylan Dixon
Keagan Mosher Jamiah Galbreath Christian Bridwell
Ty Rainey Tye Kelly Jakyri Anderson
Patrick Sloan KJ Miles  



Records



Records aren’t just numbers on a page—they’re monuments to what once seemed impossible to replace. They’re the shimmering finish lines that taunt you from afar, daring you to chase them down. This team didn’t just chase records this season; they hunted them, tackled them, and left them gasping for air.

With every snap, every drive, and every roaring cheer from the crowd, they rewrote the rulebook on what could be achieved. These weren’t just records; they were declarations of dominance, a reminder that the bar doesn’t exist to limit us—it exists to be obliterated.

Here’s the tale of those records, all now etched into the record book of our program, courtesy of a team that refused to play it safe and a group of seniors who decided their legacy deserved to shine brighter than the Friday night lights.

Game Records
Record Player Stat Game
Longest Punt Return For TD Marquise Henderson 97 2024 vs Walhalla
Rushing - Most Yards Per Carry Marquise Henderson 30.143 2023 vs Emerald
Most Sacks Justin Lathon 5 2024 vs Powdersville
Most Tackles For a Loss Kylan Dixon 4 2024 vs West Oak(tied)
Most Tackles For a Loss Kylan Dixon 4 2024 vs Laurens (tied)
Most Tackles For a Loss Tye Kelly 4 2023 vs Emerald (tied)
Least Passing Yards Allowed Team -2 2024 vs West Oak



Season Records
Record Player Stat Year
Most Points Marquise Henderson 234 2023
Most Scoring Games Marquise Henderson 14 2023
Most Touchdowns Marquise Henderson 39 2023
Most Scoring Games Marquise Henderson 14 2023
Most 100+ Rushing Games Marquise Henderson 12 2023
Most 200+ Rushing Games Marquise Henderson 5 2023
Most 300+ Rushing Games Marquise Henderson 1 2023
Most Rushing TDs Marquise Henderson 37 2023
Most Rushing Yards Per Carry Marquise Henderson 11.285 2023
Most Yards Rushing Marquise Henderson 2,336 2023
Most Penalties Team 150 penalties - 1,291 yards 2024



Career Records
Record Player Stat Seasons
All-Purpose Yards Marquise Henderson 8,308 2021-2024
Most 100+ Rushing games Marquise Henderson 37 2021-2024
Most 200+ Rushing games Marquise Henderson 8 2021-2024
Most 300+ Rushing games Marquise Henderson 1 2021-2024
Most Rushing TDs Marquise Henderson 90 2021-2024
Most Yards Per Carry Marquise Henderson 10.446875 2021-2024
Most Yards Rushing Marquise Henderson 6,686 2021-2024
Most Total TD Marquise Henderson 104 2021-2024



Top 10 List
Player Type Stat Amount Rank Year(s)
Marquise Henderson Season Rushing Yards 2,336 1st 2023
Marquise Henderson Season Rushing Yards 2,123 3rd 2024
Marquise Henderson Season All-Purpose Yards 2,706 2nd 2023
Marquise Henderson Season All-Purpose Yards 2,649 3rd 2024
Marquise Henderson Career Rushing Yards 6,686 1st 2021-2024
Marquise Henderson Career All-Purpose Yards 8,308 1st 2021-2024
Noah Thomas Season Passing Yards 1,800 6th 2024
Noah Thomas Career Passing Yards 3,385 5th 2023-2024
Tajeh Watson-Martin Season Receptions 45 4th 2024
Tajeh Watson-Martin Career Receptions 45 10th 2023-2024



Senior Class Notes:



**All records shown were either set or tied this season or are held by a graduating senior**



Shout Outs



As the season winds to a close, I’m compelled to do what I love most—shine a light on the extraordinary people who make Friday nights under the lights at BHP unforgettable. From the grit and grind on the field to the quiet heroes in the press box and beyond, this story of the 2024 Bears wouldn’t exist without them. So let’s tip our proverbial hat and dive in.

It started over a decade ago, back when my dad asked for help trying to make it easier to keep stats for the Bears. Back then, it was just numbers on a page—a humble contribution to the game we loved. But as the years rolled on, an idea began to take shape: What if every player, every coach, and every team had a place where their stories were told? Recognition is a currency we all crave but rarely receive. So I made it my mission to create a space where the players and coaches who pour their hearts into this game and this team would be celebrated. Because at BHP, suiting up isn’t just a commitment; it’s a legacy. And with that, I want to first shout out this Team.

This Team:

What can I say about this year’s squad? They weren’t just a team; they were a family, a force of nature, and a source of pride for everyone who calls Belton and Honea Path home. Watching them grind it out week after week, leaving it all on the field, wasn’t just a privilege—it was inspiring. The senior class led the way with a mix of talent and heart that set the tone for the entire season. They weren’t just playing for themselves; they were playing for every Bear who came before them and every one who will come after. The underclassmen? They matched that intensity, proving they’re ready to carry the torch into the future.

Beyond the stats and the highlights, though, what stood out most was their character. This team represented more than just their school colors; they embodied the values of hard work, resilience, and community pride. Watching them execute plays, adjust to adversity, and celebrate each other’s success was a masterclass in teamwork. They weren’t just football players—they were the standard to aspire to.

The Coaching Staff:

Behind every great team is a phenomenal coaching staff, and BHP is no exception. Coach Blackston and his crew have worked tirelessly all season, not just to build a winning program, but to shape these players into leaders on and off the field. I see it every week how they care for each and every player, not because how they played or their talent, but because of the people they are.

I am also thankful to Coach Blackston for making a guest appearance answering a few questions in this season's Bear Tracks post and allowing his other coaches to lend their expertise to those questions as well. Their willingness to go above and beyond for these players shows, not just on the field but how they talk about them to other coaches, fans, and anyone who would listen. The players this season were special, but this coaching staff was too. Both go hand in hand and accomplish something we all should be proud of.

People Behind the Scenes:

Friday nights aren’t just about the players and coaches—they’re a well-oiled machine run by people who rarely get the spotlight. The press box crew, the athletic department, and countless volunteers are the invisible backbone of BHP football.

At home games, the press box becomes a command center. Jimmy Lollis whips us all into place, while Glen Stephens delivers the perfect mix of announcements over the PA and jokes with the mic is "off", Michael McGaha provides the soundtrack to every big moment, and the clock crew Ronnie King and Mike Bratcher keeping everything in time all under the watchful eye of Mr. Jody LeCroy.

Then there’s the voice of the Bears, Joel Kay, along with his sons Allen and Chandler. The three Kays, create a family dynamic that brings a new level of heart to every broadcast. Their teamwork and camaraderie are palpable, and together, they’ve created something truly unique for the BHP community. For fans across South Carolina, hearing the Kays on the airwaves is like being part of the action, even from miles away. And this season, I even had the chance to join them at halftime for some stats and analysis. While I might not have had Joel's polished delivery, the experience was a blast. It gave me a deeper appreciation for the skill and dedication they bring to their craft every week.

Behind every great football program is an athletic department that works tirelessly to keep the wheels turning. At BHP, that means Jody LeCroy, our Athletic Director, and Matt Wurst, his assistant. Together, they’re the unsung quarterbacks of game-day operations, orchestrating everything from logistics to troubleshooting. Their work often goes unnoticed, but without them, the lights don’t come on, tickets aren’t sold, refs don’t show up, and the games don’t happen. And they don’t just do it because it’s their job; they do it because they care deeply about the players, the coaches, and the Bear community. Personally, they’ve been a tremendous help to me this season and many seasons before, and I’m endlessly grateful for their support.

Of course, the list doesn’t stop there. There are countless others who deserve recognition—volunteers who sell tickets, work concessions, and keep everything running smoothly behind the scenes. The chain crew, the videographers, the equipment managers—they’re all part of the tapestry that makes Friday nights so special.

What sets BHP apart is the way the entire community rallies around its football program. The people behind the scenes aren’t just doing jobs; they’re investing in something bigger than themselves. They’re creating memories, fostering pride, and building a legacy that extends far beyond the scoreboard.

So to everyone who plays a role, no matter how big or small, thank you. You are the heartbeat of Bear Football, and your efforts are seen, valued, and deeply appreciated. Here’s to the unsung heroes—because without you, Friday nights wouldn’t be the same.

My Family:

None of this would be possible without my family. It’s truly a team effort, and they’re the glue that holds it all together. This all started with my dad. Over a decade ago, he brought me into the fold of keeping stats for the Bears, and it quickly became a thing. Week after week, we’d sit shoulder to shoulder, me on the laptop him with his paper, calling out plays and typing numbers. And if you see us on Friday Nights, we are not fighting, we just want to get the math right!

If my dad helped me get started, my wife is the one who lets me keep going. She’s the editor who polishes my words, the sounding board for my ideas, and the one who encourages me to keep pushing forward when writer’s block creeps in. She’s the unsung hero of everything I create, and without her, none of this would happen. And she’s the one with our three wild boys on Friday Night after a full week of school. Her love and support are the foundation of everything I do, and I can’t thank her enough for being my partner in all of this.

And now my boys. They were able to come to more games than ever and are starting to understand how special High School Football truly is. From seeing me with my 2004 teammates the first game this season, to Marquise giving my youngest his glove coming off the field in Orangeburg, this season is something that will forever be special in our house.

Bear Fans:

Finally, to Bear Nation—thank you. Your energy, enthusiasm, and passion are what make this community so special. How you showed up to the MVP and State Championship games was nothing short of powerful. The jokes about ghost towns in Belton and Honea Path during the championship were spot on. As much as the players made me proud this season, seeing Bear Fans show up and support like they did was another reason Football at BHP is special.

Another thing you Bear Fans did was support me and the social media accounts I run. From engaging with social media posts to sharing your own photos and videos, you’ve helped create a platform that amplifies the achievements of these players and celebrates what it means to be a Bear. Every like, share, and comment helps spread the word, shining a spotlight on these players and giving them the acknowledgment they deserve. It’s not just about boosting a post; it’s about creating a legacy, one moment at a time. Whether you’re posting your own pictures from Orangeburg or reacting to game stats, you’ve helped build a community that extends far beyond the stadium.


As the 2024 season comes to an end, I can’t help but reflect on what an incredible ride it’s been. This team, this staff, this community—they’ve set a standard I’ll hold every future season too. But as Coach Blackston always says, “The best is yet to come.” And I, for one, can’t wait to see it.

Thanks for a special season, and How Bout Them Bears!

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