Red Fox Football Looking To Improve As They Go

By David Shelton

Senior Writer

Hartsville – As he embarks on his 22nd season as the head football coach at Hartsville High, Jeff Calabrese is anxiously anticipating the upcoming 2026 season.



The season has been a mixed bag in the early going as Hartsville split their first two games of the season. Hartsville opened with a 55-34 win over Wilson but suffered their first defeat in week two, falling to West Florence, 49-38.

As the early scores show, Hartsville’s offense has been productive with 93 points in two games. But a revamped defense, with several new coaches and some moving parts, has not been as successful. Hartsville has a new defensive coordinator with veteran coach Neil Smith taking over. A new system and several players in new positions has caused a slow start.

Hartsville was 7-5 in class AAAA last year but has been moved to class AAA for the 2026 season. Calabrese has more than 200 career coaching wins.

In terms of personnel, the Red Foxes have experience returning in several areas, starting with quarterback. Junior Ford Wallace is back as the starter and continues to develop in his role as a leader on the offense.

“He’s a young man that continues to improve every year,” said Calabrese. “He’s a good athlete and he is learning the game.”

Returning at running back is junior Trace Hillian, who is off to a good start this season. Former receiver CJ Hickmon has moved into the backfield and will be a part of the ground attack.

Anchoring the offensive line is two-time all-region performer Fred Turner. Other returning linemen, who could end up on either side of the ball, include Creighton McKnight, Jake Williams, Jaquan Samuel and Pat Rhode.

Rod Cranford returns in the back seven as a third-year starter.  Zi’Yon Mason is moving from the secondary to linebacker, as is Jamario Scipio-Bishop. Devaris James and Deon McCall are players to watch in the secondary.

“At a school our size, sometimes you have to move some kids around to make it all fit,” Calabrese said. “We have a good group to work with. We just need to build some depth and continue to improve. We’re far from a finished product.”