GOLDSBORO, N.C. – At Wayne Preparatory Academy, a football field once only imagined on paper is becoming a reality—and with it, a new chapter is being written in the school’s athletic history.
This fall, the public charter school will launch its first-ever football program—an eight-man team built from the ground up through student enthusiasm, local sponsorship, and a surprising show of support from the Minnesota Vikings.
For Executive Director John Drake, who joined the school in January, it’s about far more than football. It’s about community, identity, and giving students something to believe in.
“We had a vision and a dream,” said Drake. “The moment I saw blueprints showing space for a football stadium and track, I walked the campus and thought, why not us? Football teaches discipline, pride, and teamwork. Our students deserve to experience that.”
From Blueprint to Ballgame
With 55 acres of land and a desire to give students new opportunities, Drake saw the potential immediately. While full-scale, 11-man football wasn’t practical for a first-year team, eight-man football—a smaller, fast-paced version of the sport—offered a manageable entry point.
“It’s often called ‘basketball on grass.’ It’s exciting, it requires fewer players and less space, but it still builds the same core values,” said Drake, who brings 15 years of football coaching experience to the role.
An interest meeting quickly drew 25 students, proving there was real excitement among the student body. From there, the gears started turning—and so did the fundraising.
Local Sponsors Step Up—And So Does the NFL
Launching a football program from scratch is a major financial undertaking. Uniforms, helmets, pads, and travel costs add up fast. Drake and his team turned to the community for help—and received it.
Key sponsors included:
- Jackson and Sons Heating & Air Conditioning
- Minnesota Vikings
- Goldsboro Physical Therapy and Wellness
- TLP Sports of Goldsboro
“TLP Sports didn’t just supply all of our uniforms and helmets,” Drake emphasized. “They worked closely with us on billing arrangements, knowing how school funding cycles work. They’ve been incredible partners and really made this possible.”
The program also got an unexpected boost when Drake reached out to a Goldsboro High School alumnus now working with the Minnesota Vikings. To his surprise, the NFL team responded—and their Community Relations Department donated $1,000 to help with startup costs.
“They didn’t have to respond, but they did,” said Drake. “It means a lot to us. The Vikings earned a lifelong fan here.”
Coaches, Equipment, and a Community-Wide Effort
Drake isn’t building the program alone. He’s currently coaching alongside another staff member, and additional coaches are being recruited to help shape the inaugural season.
“Even with eight-man football, it takes a team behind the team to make it happen,” he said.
As for gear, nearly all the equipment has already arrived, thanks in large part to TLP Sports. Only a few final pieces are still in transit, ensuring players will be fully outfitted before the season begins.
“We’ve had to hustle. And there were times I wondered if we’d make it. But we’ve been very blessed,” said Drake. “There’s no doubt—it was divine intervention.”
Game Day Arrives: A Season Built on Determination
Wayne Prep’s first-ever game is set for August 22 at Father Capodanno High School near Southern Pines. The team will play six total games this season—an impressive feat given how late the program was formed.
The school’s first home game is scheduled for October 17 at 4 p.m. at the Boys and Girls Club field on Royal Avenue in Goldsboro. Though the field lacks lighting, the game will give the community its first opportunity to cheer on the team at home.
An intra-squad scrimmage is also being planned for August 14, giving fans a preview of the team before the season officially kicks off.
“We’re excited for what’s ahead,” said Drake. “This isn’t just about one season. This is about building something long-term.”
More Than a Game: Building School Spirit and Lasting Memories
While football is the centerpiece, Drake sees the bigger picture. The new program offers students and the broader school community something to unite around—something to be proud of.
“You don’t have to love football to love what it brings. It’s a social event. It builds school spirit. It brings people together,” he said. “That’s what makes this special.”
“We’re just starting this chapter,” Drake added. “And we can’t wait to see where it goes. The support we’ve received, both near and far, shows how powerful it is when a community believes in its kids.”
Wayne Preparatory Academy Football – 2025 Season Quick Facts:
- First game: August 22 vs. Father Capodanno High School (Southern Pines)
- Home game: October 17 at 4 p.m. (Boys and Girls Club, Goldsboro)
- Total games scheduled: 6
- Sponsors: Jackson and Sons, Goldsboro Physical Therapy and Wellness, TLP Sports, Minnesota Vikings
