North Buncombe High – It was a challenging year for the North Buncombe BlackHawks and their new head coach, David Hines, as they ended the season winless. Regardless, one of the players landed a scholarship and will be headed to play college football for the Mars Hill University Lions.
Senior Spencer Roane signed a commitment letter to Mars Hill last week, where friends, teammates, and family gathered in the school’s cafeteria to help him celebrate the pivotal end of his high school athletic experience and the start of his college athletic career.
Head Football Coach and Athletic Director David Hines said of Roane, “He played both sides of the field. He played receiver, running back, and defensive back. wherever we really needed him. He did a lot of good stuff for us on both sides and excelled for us once we put him in the backfield as a running back. That’s what Mars Hill really hopes he can do. Fill in like a halfback-type role where he can be a jack of all trades.”
Asked how it felt to be moving on to the next level, Roane said, “It feels great.” It’s been something I’ve been thinking about all through high school. Just making it to the next level in any sport” Roan also played basketball and ran track for the BlackHawks. “I love football, and just to go play for four more years is really special.”
Asked about Roane’s selection by Mars Hill, Coach Hines stated, “We’ve been working on it the last couple of months, and he went up for a visit early in January, and he went to their open tryouts they did for all the 2023 [graduates]. I got a call shortly after that they were really, really interested, and I think they were excited that he came and worked out. The last few weeks have been exciting for him and us here, just knowing that we can help him move on and do what he wants to do with his future.”
Hines added, “He killed it every day in the weight room. He does stuff on the weekend. He worked on this for a long time and put in a lot of time. His work ethic is top-notch, just like a lot of our guys here… I think it will serve him well when he gets to the next level.
Roane started playing football in the eighth grade, but after two games, he broke his collarbone and didn’t play again until his freshman year of high school. Last year, Roane rushed for about 700+ yards and ran for about 400–500 passing yards. “It was fun. I hope I can continue to do the same thing at Mars Hill.” He plans to study Health Science while at college. What does it mean for him and his family? Spencer said, “They were praying every day that I would get something, and Mars Hill came through.”
Mom, Jane Roane, said of her son’s accomplishment, “It’s awesome! He’s worked really hard for many years on a variety of sports.” Jane, who is not only his mom but his track coach, went on to explain, “So this is particularly special for me. Mars Hill saw the future in him, and we’re super excited!”
Dad, Matt Roane, told the Tribune, “We’re very proud and very excited. It’s a great opportunity. It’s a wonderful school with a wonderful program. It gives him a chance to advance his education and to continue to play a game that he loves.”
About the Lions
Last year, the Lions finished their season 7-3 overall and 7-2 in their conference. The team’s offense rushed for 180.9 yards while passing for 214.7 and averaging 28.7 points a game. Their defense gave up 107.5 yards rushing and 185.5 yards passing. Their opponents’ average scoring per game was 19.6. The Lions are a Division II school and play in the South Atlantic Conference.