Weaverville – A third soccer player from North Buncombe High School is committing to playing for Mars Hill University in the fall. Ezekiel “Zeke” Wainwright is joining teammates Crishawn Mills and Jarib Pott at MHU. Wainwright is a senior midfielder for NBHS and played for Highland Football Club 03 Red this past season.
“He played in an attacking midfielder role for us that made a tremendous impact in our offensive game. His tireless work ethic and ability to play in tight spaces along with his spatial awareness made him one of the top attacking threats in the conference,” says NBHS coach Thorsten Path.
Wainwright dons the #10 jersey. The senior scored six goals this season, five assists and 29 steals for North Buncombe this year.
International Player
His HFC team is a Gold level team, ranked #3 in North Carolina and #30 in the nation. Wainwright has played for this travel team since he was 10, and has since trained internationally, in England and Spain. He also represented Team USA at the Mediterranean International Cup, one of the largest youth soccer tournaments in the world.
“I am honored to have the opportunity to play for the MHU Lions soccer team. I look forward to college and I can’t wait to meet my teammates. I want to thank MHU Coach Gregg Munn, North Buncombe HS Coach Thorsten Path, all of my friends & family and Highland Football Club program, teammates & coaches for their support,” says Wainwright.
Family Support
Wainwright’s parents are enthusiastic about his commitment to four more years of higher education and athletics.
“I’m excited and proud of Ezekiel to go and play soccer for Mars Hill University. I’m looking forward to seeing him play at the college level. He’s always worked hard to compete at the highest level. He’s trained in both Spain and England. I see good things for his future at Mars Hill University. Go Lions!” says David Wainwright, Zeke’s father.
They are also assuredly excited that Wainwright will be close to home playing a sport he loves.
“I’m really proud of Zeke for deciding to be a Mars Hill student athlete. He has always had a love for the beautiful game (of soccer). He’s developed a skill set and creative style that defines the way he plays. I’m so glad he is continuing his education and soccer career. And so close to home!” says Fiona Hollowell, Zeke’s mother.
At college, Wainwright is interested in Business, Biology, Art, History and Environmental studies.
Wainwright’s commitment ceremony is Friday, May 28 at 3:15 at NBHS