The Belmont Sports Hall of Fame is preparing to welcome its 2026 induction class, featuring the celebrated 2016 South Point football team, influential coach and educator Steve Hudgens, and the versatile athletic sisters Sara and Elaine Hoover. This prestigious event, scheduled for October 6, will acknowledge their profound impact on local sports achievements and community development, highlighting a diverse range of accomplishments from championship victories to dedicated mentorship and broad athletic participation across multiple disciplines.
South Point Football's Historic 2016 Championship
The 2016 South Point football team's journey to the NCHSAA 3A state championship was a remarkable display of resilience and teamwork. Overcoming a challenging 2-4 start, the Red Raiders, under the guidance of coach Mickey Lineberger, secured ten consecutive victories, culminating in a decisive 16-7 win against Rocky Mount in the state final. This triumph marked the program's fifth state title, adding to previous victories in 1971, 1979, 2003, and 2009, cementing their legacy in high school football history.
The team's success was rooted in a collective effort, with key contributions from various players. Junior quarterback Scottie Lee emerged as a vital leader, complementing a potent rushing attack, anchored by Jake Alexander, which consistently averaged 245.6 yards per game. The defensive unit, featuring future Atlanta Falcons tight end Nick Muse alongside Nathan Hamilton, Matthew Robinson, and Tannr Canterberry, was particularly formidable, conceding an average of only 8.8 points per game. Their exceptional performance included 85 tackles for loss, 29 sacks, and 32 turnovers, with 23 interceptions and nine fumble recoveries. This dominant defense culminated in their best showing during the state final, where they limited Rocky Mount to just 118 total yards, illustrating their crucial role in securing the championship.
Celebrating Local Athletic Excellence: The Hoover Sisters and Steve Hudgens
The Hoover sisters, Sara and Elaine, left an indelible mark on Belmont athletics through their multi-sport prowess and dedication to community sports. Both were integral members of the South Point girls' basketball teams that captured WNCHSAA titles in 1972 and 1973 under coach Earl Lingafeldt, achieving an impressive 46-3 record over two seasons. Elaine, in particular, was recognized for her exceptional defensive skills, demonstrating her commitment and talent on the court.
Beyond basketball, the sisters excelled in swimming, with Sara specializing in freestyle and backstroke, and Elaine in breaststroke and butterfly. Their passion extended to coaching, where they mentored numerous individuals in Belmont and Charlotte, fostering swimming skills from 1969 to 1972. They also made significant contributions to softball, playing for the Tri-Angels of the Gaston Women's Softball League, securing circuit titles in 1974 and 1975. Sara further contributed to the sport, helping the Gastonia Hope Plastics Roadrunners win a state championship in 1976 and continuing to introduce young athletes to softball well into the 21st century. Elaine continued her athletic career at Sacred Heart College, competing in both basketball and softball, showcasing their enduring athletic spirit and commitment to sports.
