Orange County didn’t just go through a rebuild with coach Jesse Lohr. It was an overhaul. That the former Hornet has put his program back to the forefront of the Jefferson District, the way things used to be, is a testament to his players responding to the message. That Orange County has its first football signee since Amir Waller going back to 2010 is a sign that the Hornets are officially on to something.
“High school, I enjoyed it a lot,” DeAngelo Hunt said. “I wish I could hit a rewind button and play high school football all over again. It was just the best experience.”
Hunt earned a full ride to play for Glenville State and signed on Wednesday. And for him, this was something special, not just because he gets to keep playing football, but also because it means that those in the classes under him have bar to strive for, something this program has strived for over the years.
“This was stressful and I really just had to weigh out the pros and cons, wait for the best deal, the best offer” Hunt said. “This has always been my dream and it’s finally come true.”
Hunt, an All-Scrimmage Play selection the last two years, is projected to play at running back for Glenville State. But he also doubled for Orange at linebacker and only cares that he’s on the field, not where.
“They say I fit into the scheme and expect me to do what I already do,” Hunt said. “I just love the game. I mean I’ll play lineman at my size. It really doesn’t matter to me. I love the game.”
With Orange set to have more signees down the road soon including fellow backfield and linebacking teammate in Tre Smith, the Hornets have proud tradition again like they did just less that 10 years ago. Replacing Hunt and company is rough, but it’s a good problem. Wednesday was the sign that Orange is re-setting the bar each year, to a newer and higher height.
