Robesonian

Top 15: Hunt is Red Devils’ ‘heartbeat’

RED SPRINGS — Leading into high school football practice starting on July 30, The Robesonian’s sports staff is publishing a countdown of the top 15 players in Robeson County, and Red Springs’ Aaron Hunt comes in at No. 10 on the list.

The linebacker made the second-most tackles on the team with 62 last season, trailing Robeson County Heisman winner Jerome Bass by 78. Hunt said losing Bass to graduation hasn’t changed his team’s mindset over the offseason.

“We just keep rolling,” Hunt said. “Just because we lose one person doesn’t mean we can’t replace him.”

The rising senior was able to be disruptive in the backfield as a junior, tallying six tackles for loss. Hunt forced two fumbles and recovered one.

He wrapped up the season with a selection to the all-county team, and Hunt is already focused on making the all-Three Rivers Conference team this season.

“Aaron Hunt is the heartbeat. He’s the motor that drives the bus,” head coach Lawrence Ches said. “Never missed a practice, never missed a workout, never missed a lift. 100 percent buy-in. He’s obviously stepping in for a huge player from last year.”

In addition to his efforts on defense, Hunt also caught five passes for a total of 67 yards and a touchdown last season.

Hunt said he thinks the Red Devils’ offensive line and defense are currently among the strongest units on the team.

“I think we’re pretty good. We lost a couple seniors this year, but we got some good people to replace them,” Hunt said.

Hunt helped guide the Red Devils to a 9-4 record and an appearance in the second round of the NCHSAA football championships last year. He posted eight or more tackles four times and logged a season-high three tackles for loss against West Bladen.

“I think we can make a repeat run in the playoffs this year,” Hunt said.

Red Springs opens its season on Aug. 17 at South Brunswick.

Hunt
https://www.robesonian.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/web1_IMG_6210_ne2018717184627966.jpgHunt

By Brandon Tester

Staff writer

Reach Brandon Tester at 910-816-1989 or btester@robesonian.com. Follow him on Twitter @BrandonTester.