GOLDSBORO, N.C. — When the lights illuminate the gridiron this Friday night, more than just another high school football game will unfold. The Goldsboro Cougars will travel across town to face the Eastern Wayne Warriors in the annual Wayne County Classic, marking the continuation of a rivalry that has defined autumn Friday nights in Wayne County for over half a century.
Fifty-five years ago, these two programs first clashed on the football field, igniting what would become Wayne County’s most intense athletic rivalry. Since that inaugural meeting, the Wayne County Classic has evolved into one of the region’s premier high school football events, consistently drawing packed stadiums and passionate fan bases from both sides of town.
This year’s matchup carries the prestigious designation of the Pittman Agner Law High School Football Game of the Week, underscoring its significance in the local sports landscape. The game promises to deliver the intensity and drama that has made this rivalry a cornerstone of Wayne County athletics.
Championship Aspirations Drive Preparation
Eastern Wayne head coach Leander Oates enters the contest with high expectations for his Warriors squad. The program returns a talented group of seniors who bring valuable experience to both sides of the ball, creating a foundation for what could be a special season.
“We’re really looking forward to Friday night—it’s always exciting when our team gets the chance to compete in front of our community,” Oates said. “The players have been working hard all summer, and I know they’re eager to put that preparation on the field.”
The Warriors have set ambitious goals for the 2024 season, with Oates outlining a clear path to success. “For us, this game is the first step in reaching the goals we’ve set as a team: go undefeated, win our conference, make the playoffs, and ultimately compete for a state championship,” he explained.
The combination of veteran leadership and emerging underclassmen talent has created an atmosphere of optimism within the Eastern Wayne program. This blend of experience and youth could prove crucial as the Warriors navigate what promises to be a competitive conference schedule.
More Than Just a Game
While the on-field action will undoubtedly captivate spectators, Oates emphasized that the Wayne County Classic represents something deeper for both programs and their communities.
“At the end of the day, it’s about more than football—it’s about representing our school and community with pride, effort, and sportsmanship,” Oates noted. “I expect it to be a competitive matchup, and I know our fans will make it a great atmosphere for high school football.”
The rivalry’s enduring appeal stems from its ability to unite communities while simultaneously dividing them along school lines. For one night, neighbors become opponents, and bragging rights become the most valuable currency in Wayne County.
Game Day Coverage
Football fans throughout the region can experience every moment of the Wayne County Classic through comprehensive media coverage. FM 98.3 WGBR will provide live radio coverage of the contest, with streaming also available at GoldsboroDailyNews.com.
The evening’s programming begins with the UNC Health Wayne Pre-Game Show at 6:45 p.m., setting the stage for the 7:00 p.m. kickoff. The broadcast will capture not only the game action but also the electric atmosphere that makes high school football a cherished community tradition.
The game receives support from several prominent local businesses, including Keen Plumbing, Wayne Community College, Mt. Olive Pickles, UNC Health Wayne, and Pennington Automotive, demonstrating the community-wide investment in high school athletics.
A Legacy Continues
As the Goldsboro Cougars and Eastern Wayne Warriors prepare to add another chapter to their storied rivalry, the Wayne County Classic stands as a testament to the enduring power of high school football to unite communities and create lasting memories.
Friday night’s contest will determine more than just a winner and loser—it will establish early-season momentum, validate off-season preparation, and provide both programs with valuable insight as they pursue their championship aspirations.
The Wayne County Classic kicks off at 7:00 p.m., with comprehensive coverage available on FM 98.3 WGBR and streaming live at GoldsboroDailyNews.com. In a rivalry spanning 55 years, Friday’s game promises to uphold the tradition of competitive excellence and community pride that has made this matchup a cornerstone of Wayne County athletics.
To Listen in, or look at the upcoming schedules of the games:
