Aiken, August 19, 2025
News Summary
The recent Aiken County Jamboree successfully brought together communities to celebrate high school football, overcoming challenging weather challenges. Teams like South Aiken and Aiken High showcased their talents, with impressive performances from key players. Coach Steve Hibbitts aims to uplift the Aiken High football program, fostering a culture of leadership and collaboration as the season unfolds.
Aiken
The Aiken County Jamboree was successfully held on August 18, 2025, showcasing local high school football teams despite challenging weather conditions, including high temperatures and lightning. The event featured several competitive matches, drawing communities together in anticipation of the upcoming football season.
In the opening match, South Aiken faced Swansea, where they overcame an early deficit to win 13-7. Key performances from players Kaeleb O’Berry and Tommy Burns played a crucial role in securing the victory. Aiken High School also achieved a win, besting Wagener-Salley with a final scoreline of 7-0. The game was dominated by a strong defensive strategy led by quarterback Tanner Padgett.
Silver Bluff participated in a match against Ridge Spring-Monetta, which ended in a scoreless tie. In another contest, they showcased their defensive prowess against Blackville-Hilda, winning 7-0. The fourth game of the evening featured Blackville-Hilda versus Ridge Spring-Monetta, which also ended in a 0-0 stalemate.
Aiken High’s Gray Kitchings made impressive plays during the game against Wagener-Salley, including a critical sack. The team’s success comes as they have a new head coach, Steve Hibbitts, aiming to revitalize the struggling Aiken High football program, which previously faced a decade of challenges, including a distressing 25-game losing streak. Hibbitts, who has a commendable coaching background including a 10-2 season and recognition as Georgia 5A Coach of the Year, is focused on establishing a strong football precedent through leadership and team strategy adaptation.
Tanner Padgett returns as Aiken High’s junior quarterback after a strong previous season, joined by leading rushers and a capable defensive lineup ready to take on upcoming challenges. Coach Hibbitts has expressed a keen interest in instilling a culture of leadership, fostering collaboration among players, and emphasizing a winning mindset essential for success on and off the field.
The upcoming schedule for Aiken High includes matches against Aynor, Airport, and Midland Valley from late August through October. The enthusiastic support from the Aiken High School community and officials indicates optimism concerning Hibbitts’ vision for the program’s future.
Competition Highlights
- South Aiken vs. Swansea: South Aiken won 13-7.
- Aiken High vs. Wagener-Salley: Aiken High won 7-0.
- Silver Bluff vs. Ridge Spring-Monetta: Match ended in a 0-0 tie.
- Silver Bluff vs. Blackville-Hilda: Silver Bluff won 7-0.
- Blackville-Hilda vs. Ridge Spring-Monetta: Match ended in a 0-0 tie.
Looking Ahead
With the season now underway, there is a renewed hope as Aiken High works towards building a successful football program, leveraging both new leadership and established talent. Under Coach Hibbitts’ guidance, the focus remains on fostering an environment that prioritizes both athletic excellence and personal growth.
FAQ
What is the Aiken County Jamboree?
The Aiken County Jamboree is a high school football event that showcases various teams in a competitive setting, allowing them to kick off their season in front of their community.
What teams participated in the jamboree?
The teams participating included South Aiken, Swansea, Aiken High, Wagener-Salley, Silver Bluff, Ridge Spring-Monetta, and Blackville-Hilda.
Who is the new head coach of Aiken High?
The new head coach of Aiken High is Steve Hibbitts, who aims to revitalize the football program after a significant losing streak.
What notable performances occurred during the jamboree?
Kaeleb O’Berry and Tommy Burns contributed to South Aiken’s victory, while Tanner Padgett and Gray Kitchings were key players for Aiken High’s success.
What is the upcoming schedule for Aiken High?
Aiken High’s upcoming games include matches against Aynor, Airport, and Midland Valley scheduled from late August to October 2025.
Key Features of Aiken High Jamboree
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Date | August 18, 2025 |
| Weather Conditions | Heat and lightning |
| Key Teams | South Aiken, Aiken High, Silver Bluff, Blackville-Hilda |
| Notable Coach | Steve Hibbitts |
| Upcoming Matches | Aynor, Airport, Midland Valley |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
High School Football Season Kicks Off in Augusta Area
Aiken High School Appoints New Football Coach
South Carolina High School Football Season Kicks Off
Severe Thunderstorm Alert Issued for Aiken Area
Local High Schools Kick Off Football Season with Jamborees
Aiken County Jamboree to Showcase Local Football Talent
Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Jamborees Over, Season Starts Now
- Aiken Standard: South Aiken Loaded with Youth Potential
- WJBF: Aiken Hires Lakeside’s Hibbitts as New Head Football Coach
- The Augusta Press: Aiken High School Welcomes New Head Football Coach
- WRDW: Aiken Football Begins New Era Under New Head Coach
- Wikipedia: Aiken, South Carolina
- Google Search: Aiken High School football
- Google Scholar: Aiken High football
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Steve Hibbitts
- Google News: Aiken County Jamboree
Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN
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