Chapin – As we dive into the 2023 high school football season, we all should remember that life is more important than wins and losses in competition.
Chapin High School’s football team lost its week zero season opener to Irmo on Aug. 18. A few days later, the football program suffered even greater loss when news surfaced of the tragic death of one of their own.
Senior defensive lineman Fabian Douglas “Tre” Ruff III died at his home in the evening of Aug. 21 and the morning of Aug. 22. He was 17 years old.
The new of Ruff’s death rocked the Chapin community, the student body, and obviously the Chapin football team. Head coach Justin Gentry released a statement to the community and the media.
“The Ruff family, Chapin football, Chapin High School, and the entire Chapin community was handed a huge blow. The passing of Tre has been difficult to comprehend, but the love, support and prayers from around the state has been extremely humbling.
“Tre had the ability to light up the room the minute he walked in. He was such a mild-mannered young man with a huge heart for everyone. Our whole school is mourning the loss of him but the impact he made in our lives leaves us all with smiles on our faces. The Chapin community has wrapped their arms around Chapin High School and the Ruff family, and together we will all get through this. It is our goal as a football team to never let our memories of Tre fade as we fight through and honor his legacy this season.”
Chapin returned with heavy hearts to the field on Aug. 25 to face Mid-Carolina in their second game of the 2023 season.
Chapin looks to improve on last year’s 3-8 record. The Eagles started last season at 3-1 before losing their final seven games. The week zero loss to Irmo was their eighth straight loss.
Among the top returners this season is junior quarterback Brady Albro, who produced more than 2,000 passing yards and 14 touchdowns last season. Among his top targets in the passing game this fall will be senior Isaiah Green and junior Jonathan Sheppard, with senior tight end Brice Jolley expected to be a key contributor as well.
Anchoring a young offensive line are senior Hayden McCarson (6-3, 260), and sophomores Caden Muskus (6-3, 240) and Mason Hetlinger (6-2, 240). Key running backs will include junior John Rossi and sophomore Cole Martin.
Key defensive leaders this fall include senior end Hayden Burris (6-3, 220), who had 50 tackles, nine for loss and three sacks last season. Linebacker Brogdon Ambrose also returns with experience, as do defensive backs Russell Gentry and Griffin Burns, both seniors.
Returning as a weapon on special teams is senior Chase Cline, rated a five-star performer as a kicker and punter.
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