KNIGHTS TAKE OUT NUMBER ONE SEED WESTCHESTER COUNTRY DAY, ADVANCE TO 2A STATE CHAMPIONSHIP GAME   HIGH POINT, NC - October 22nd, 2019 – When the Knights players entered the soccer stadium on Tuesday, their biggest concern wasn’t their opponent or the hostile fans, it was the conditions of the playing surface resulting from heavy rains leading up to the 6:00 start.   The Knights and Wildcats, two teams that met in last year’s round of eight, a game in which Westchester won 4-2, slogged it out in the mud for the first 40 minutes of the contest. The Knights struck first as junior Chase Collins provided an assist for junior Garrison Mullis in minute number four. At minute twenty-seven the Wildcats scored their first and only goal of the night. As both teams adjusted to the difficult field conditions, the first half ended in a 1-1 tie.   Sophomore Braden Runyon gave the Knights a 2-1 advantage at minute 51. Junior Dylan Morrison pushed the ball up the right side, executed a beautiful right to left cross. Runyon, who was all alone on the far post, finished the deal as he headed the ball into goal.   Just one minute later, junior Braden Whitford gave the Knights a 3-1 cushion as Mullis was able to find him to be credited with the assist. Then sophomore Stephen Frye scored on an assist from Dylan Morrison, his second assist of the game, at minute 61. With just under 2 minutes remaining in the contest, Mullis was fouled inside the box and junior Ben Vazquez was called upon to take the PK. Vazquez, the coach’s son, nailed the upper left corner for a 5-1 Knight’s advantage. The Knights would hold off the Wildcats and the game would end, 5-1, sending the Knights into Saturdays State Championship game.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     On this night, the entire Knights squad was the recipient of the HCA Battle Ball, an HCA tradition after each game awarded to the player with the best effort, attitude, performance and all-around impact on the outcome of the contest. The Knights played their best game to date and look to duplicate their efforts this Saturday.   The Knights travel back to the Westchester campus in High Point on Saturday October 26th to take on the #2 seed Gaston Day for the state championship. The game is slated to start at 4:00.

KNIGHTS REACH FINAL FOUR WITH SHUTOUT WIN OVER 2018 STATE 2A CHAMPION FAYETTEVILLE ACADEMY, FAYETTEVILLE, NC; 2-0 SCORE; 15-4-0 Overall, 6-0 Foothills Athletic Conference     FAYETTEVILLE, NC - October 19TH, 2019 – Playing their third game in a five day stretch and extending their winning streak to 10 games, the Knights brought a focus and purpose to the pitch unmatched by their opponents. Fayetteville Academy, a number 4 seed, proudly displayed their many state championships on a board just as you enter the field, but the Knights would not be intimidated.   The first 10 minutes didn’t look good for the Knights as the Eagles pounded inside the eighteen and seemingly were a force to be reckoned with. Fortunately, they could not find the back of the net and perhaps this lack of scoring started the change of momentum starting at the 11-minute mark. From that point forward until the final whistle blue 70 minutes later, the Knights would dominate the contest with stellar play from both the defensive and offensive side.    Scoring goals for the Knights were sophomore Braden Runyon (20th minute) and junior Garrison Mullis (45th minute) with junior Wyatt King providing the assist.    Junior Nate Walls, a first-year goalkeeper, was the recipient of the HCA Battle Ball, an HCA tradition after each game awarded to the player with the best effort, attitude, performance and all-around impact on the outcome of the contest. After a strategy session earlier in the week with head coach Bruno Ramos, Walls came out with perhaps his best performance of the season. Holding his line, communicating loudly, directing the back line and coming out of goal were all taking points the coach and player covered during their meeting, and obviously the two came out on the same page.      The Knights travel to High Point on Tuesday October 22nd to take on the #1 seed Westchester Christian Academy for a 6:00 start time.

SURVIVE AND ADVANCE; KNIGHTS PLAY TWO OVERTIME PERIODS, ADVANCE TO 2ND ROUND OF PLAYOFFS WITH A WIN OVER BURLINGTON CHRISTIAN ACADEMY, BURLINGTON, NC; 4-3 SCORE; 13-4-0 Overall, 6-0 Foothills Athletic Conference     HICKORY, NC - October 15TH, 2019 – Hickory Christian moves ahead for round two of the 2A State Playoffs with a hard-fought victory @ Henry  Fork Park.   The Knights jumped out early on the attack as junior Wyatt King scored goal on an assist from sophomore Stephen Frye to take a 1-0 lead just three minutes into the contest. The visiting Royals tied the score at 1-1. However, Junior Hugo Fournie supplied the Knights with their second goal of the contest at minute thirty, taking the advantage to 2-1. Burlington Christian would tie the game at minute thirty-four and it would remain 2-2 until the start of the second half.    The clock would run to minute sixty before another goal was scored. This time sophomore Braden Runyon, a monster on the pitch all evening, moved the Knights ahead on a successful penalty kick at minute sixty. The PK was awarded after junior Braden Whitford was fouled in the box after maneuvering his way towards goal. The PK by Runyon gave the Knights a 3-2 advantage, but the Royals came back to tie the score at 3-3. With twelve minutes remaining in the contest, both teams would fight hard in front of a large crowd of supporters, only to go scoreless and forcing overtime.    As the team’s captains met at midfield the game would proceed with 2-10-minute overtime periods. After a scoreless first overtime period, the Knights Dylan Morrison, a junior, blasted what was the winning goal in the final minute of the 2nd overtime period.    Junior Dylan Morrison was the recipient of the HCA Battle Ball, an HCA tradition after each game awarded to the player with the best effort, attitude, performance and all-around impact on the outcome of the contest. Morrison, a strong right-footed scorer, had his 2nd game winning score over a three-game span. The junior provided the game winning score last week in a win over rival Statesville Christian.    The Knights will host Friendship Christian School out of Raleigh forma 2nd round contest this Thursday October 17th @ 4:00 at the Neil Clark Facility.  

KNIGHTS SECURE VICTORY OVER UNIVERSITY CHRISTIAN, HICKORY, NC; 5-2 SCORE; 12-4-0 Overall, 6-0 Foothills Athletic Conference     HICKORY, NC - October 10TH, 2019 – With the win the Knights from Hickory Christian Academy extended their winning streak to seven games and added an exclamation point on their conference championship season. The regular season finale was a neck and neck battle until the Knights pulled away with three unanswered goals in the final 13 minutes of the contest.   The first 12 minutes presented to the fans a back and forth defensive battle until the Barracudas struck first at minute thirteen to take a 1-0 lead. Just two mintues later the Knights would even the score at 1-1 as junior Garrison Mullis was on the receiving end of a Stephen Frye assist and found the back of the net. Frye, a sophomore, would create another opportunity for his teammates, this time finding sophomore/junior (just for you Tasha) Braden Runyon. Runyon’s goal put the Knights ahead 2-1 at minute mark eighteen.    University Christian would score the last goal of the first half off a well-executed corner kick at the 25-minute mark.    During the halftime talk, it was obvious to the Knights coaches and players felt they were the superior team, but miscues and lost opportunities had the contest knotted at 2-2.   Moving into half number two the Knights would need to capitalize on their opportunities if they were to finish out the conference season undefeated. Through the first 26 minutes of the second half not much changed for the Knights as numerous shots on goals resulted in no points in the scoring column. Perhaps one of the endearing traits of the 2019 team is their perseverance and toughness; a never quit attitude that has defined this year’s squad.    To that thought, the Knights would pour it on over the final 14 minutes of action, tallying 3 unanswered goals to secure the win by a 5-2 margin. Junior Garrison Mullis hit payday at the 66th minute and again at minute 68, this time on an assist from junior Dylan Morrison. Sophomore Braden Runyon would drive the final nail in the coffin off a direct kick with just under four minutes remaining in the contest.   Sophomore Stephen Frye was the recipient of the HCA Battle Ball, an HCA tradition after each game awarded to the player with the best effort, attitude, performance and all-around impact on the outcome of the contest. Frye, fighting through an injury to his wrist and an apparent overdose of pancakes consumed during his last period theology class that caused bloating and shortness of breath, was credited with two assists on the evening and often found himself in the middle of the action throughout the contest.    Battle Ball honorable mention goes to sophomore Ian Benfield who resisted the temptation to partake in the pancake festivities.    The Knights will practice Friday afternoon then await the state playoff seedings that will be published late Sunday afternoon. 

KNIGHTS TRAVEL WEST AND RETURN HOME AS CONFERENCE CHAMPIONS WITH A HARD-FOUGHT VICTORY OVER STATESVILLE CHRISTIAN, STATESVILLE, NC; 2-1 SCORE; 11-4-0 Overall, 5-0 Foothills Athletic Conference     STATESVILLE, NC - October 8TH, 2019 – Hickory Christian finished off the season sweep of Statesville Christian with a 2-1 win on a welcomed cool afternoon on the pitch.   The Lions struck first at minute eighteen to take a 1-0 lead. The Knights would even the score at 1-1 as junior Braden Runyon drilled a direct kick from 25 yards out. The score would remain deadlocked until the halftime whistle sounded.   The game would go all the way to the 76th minute before another score would take place. Fortunately for the Knights, junior Dylan Morrison battled his way into the box and punched it in the right side of net, moving the score back in the favor of the Knights 2-1. Junior Garrison Mullis was credited with the assist.    During the final 4 minutes of the heated contest, the Knights offense and defense would play keep away and run out the clock, returning home with a huge road conference win.   Junior Caleb McMurray was the recipient of the HCA Battle Ball, an HCA tradition after each game awarded to the player with the best effort, attitude, performance and all-around impact on the outcome of the contest. McMurray, the anchor of the Knights defensive back line, played solid throughout and disrupted the offensive attack of the Lions, holding them to one goal.   The Knights are on the road Thursday October 10th, their final regular season match for a 5:15 road contest against University Christian.

ON SENIOR RECOGNITION DAY, KNIGHTS TAKE WIN OVER CROSS TOWN RIVAL AND CONFERENCE FOE UNIVERSITY CHRISTIAN, HICKORY, NC; 5-1 SCORE; 10-4-0 Overall, 4-0 Foothills Athletic Conference     HICKORY, NC- October 1st, 2019 – On a night where senior  Spencer Burton and one-year transfer student Hugo Fournie were honored in the post-game gathering, the Knights soundly took care of business with an impressive win over the visiting Barracuda’s. With the win the Knights took an important step to capturing the conference title, moving to a 4-0 conference record in the inaugural season of the Foothills Athletic Conference.    With an overflow crowd to witness the Knights last regular season home game the Knights would not disappoint those in attendance.    Leading the way offensively for the Knights with two goals was junior Garrison Mullis. Sophomore Braden Runyon led the way with two assists and also netted one goal. Rounding out the scoring was junior Dylan Morrison (1 goal) and junior Braden Whitford (1 goal). Juniors Wyatt King and Hugo Fournie each had one assist.    Defensively the Knights were solid all the way around, giving up only one goal in minute number seventy.    Over a span of the last five games, the Knights have outscored their opponents 25-5 and riding a 5-game winning streak. If the Knights continue their improved play, a conference title and top 6 state playoff seed is likely.   Freshman Michael Steinert was the recipient of the HCA Battle Ball, an HCA tradition after each game awarded to the player with the best effort, attitude, performance and all-around impact on the outcome of the contest. Steinert, the lone freshman on this year’s squad, stepped onto the pitch with confidence, engaging in all aspects of what coach Bruno Ramos instructed. The freshman often plays where needed and has experienced an increase in his level of play as the season has progressed.   The Knights are on the road Tuesday October 8thfor a 5:30 road contest against Statesville Christian then finishing up their regular season in a final road contest against University Christian on Thursday October 10th@ 5:15.  

KNIGHTS GETS ROAD GAME SHUTOUT OF CONFERENCE FOE DAVIDSON DAY SCHOOL, DAVIDSON, NC; 5-0 SCORE; 9-4-0 Overall, 3-0 Foothills Athletic Conference     DAVIDSON, NC- September 24th, 2019 – As both teams greeted one another at midfield after a hard fought, double overtime, 3-2 victory for the Knights back on September 13th, head coach of the Patriots Brad Laatsch left these words for the Knights, “We will be ready for you when you guys come down to our place in a couple of weeks”.   Turned out the Knights from Hickory Christian Academy were the ones on the ready. As the bus arrived at the beautiful soccer facility on the Davidson Day campus, the Knights were focused on the task at hand as seen by there dominating performance. As coach Bruno Ramos and Josh Walker stated, it was perhaps the most complete game of the season for the Knights, a compilation of hard work, mental focus and sheer determination.     The Knights grabbed their first goal at minute twenty-two of the contest, a 25 yd, upper 90 goal by sophomore Stephen Frye that was deemed “Goal of the Year” by head coach Bruno Ramos. Very soon after, junior Ben Vasquez (more on Vasquez later in the write up) broke free up the middle and laid it off to teammate and fellow junior Garrison Mullis who blasted it in for the score at minute twenty-nine, giving the visiting Knights a 2-0 advantage. Frye and Mullis would be a part of the next score as Mullis earned the assist allowing Frye to score his second goal of the match, moving the needle to 3-0 going into the halftime break.    Junior Dylan Morrison once again continued his improved play, giving the Knights a 4-0 lead at the 60-minute mark. Mullis wasn’t finished yet as he ripped a 20+ yard blast over goalie Tom Li’s outstretched hands driving the final nail on the Patriots afternoon. The Knights would win the contest by a 5-0 margin, giving the defense a much-anticipated shutout. So, let’s give a SHOUTOUT for the SHUTOUT for the entire defense.    Juniors Wyatt King and Ben Vasquez were the recipients of the HCA Battle Ball, an HCA tradition after each game awarded to the player with the best effort, attitude, performance and all-around impact on the outcome of the contest. King, one of the most versatile players on the roster, played with unparalleled passion and determination, providing the Knights with energy and ball possession throughout the match. As coach Ramos said post game, “I love it when your hair fly’s back Wyatt. When it bounces it makes me mad. The difference is when you are playing aggressively versus tip towing.” As for Vasquez, no one really knew what to expect as the junior was held out of Monday’s practice due to complications of a potential migraine. Without question he had his best performance of the season and is blossoming into a solid role player for the Knights.   With the win the Knights climb up to the #8 spot in the state 2A MaxPreps rankings.    During the post-game meal at Char grill, junior Caleb McMurray, distracted by the fact that the girl’s tennis team accompanied the meal, lost his debit card. McMurray and coach Carter would return to the scene, rumbling through the trash cans but failing to produce the card.    The Knights next contest will be on Tuesday October 1stas they host community and conference rival University Christian. The match is scheduled for a 4:00 start at the Neil Clark facility next to the HCA campus. 

KNIGHTS DOMINATE ON THE PITCH AGAINST NORTH HILLS; 8-1 SCORE; 8-4-0 Overall, 2-0 Foothills Athletic Conference     SALISBURY, NC- September 19h, 2019 – Prior to assistant coach Daryl Carter leaving town, he was able to draw up a scripted game plan for first year head coach Bruno Ramos. Ramos, still learning the game of soccer while transitioning to his head coaching role, is a quick learner and has gained valuable coaching experience through his first 12 games under Carter’s tutelage. (Sorry Bruno, had to get you at least once before the season was over)   The Knights struck early and often during their away contest against North Hills.   Leading the way for the Knights offensively were sophomore Walker Harris (3 goals), junior Braden Whitford (2 goals), junior Wyatt King (1 goal , 1 assist), junior Hugo Fournie (1 goal), sophomore Braden Runyon (1 goal, 2 assists), junior Dylan Morrison (2 assists) and sophomore Stephen Frye (1 assist).    Sophomore Walker Harris was the recipient of the HCA Battle Ball, an HCA tradition after each game awarded to the player with the best effort, attitude, performance and all-around impact on the outcome of the contest. Harris, who has been a pleasant surprise this season for the Knights, seems to have a nose for the ball and is certainly taking advantage of his opportunities to contribute to the success of the team. He’s also made it through a major portion of the season without breaking his Apple iPhone, something he did multiple times during his freshman campaign.    Battle Ball honorable mention goes to Wes Benfield, dad of sophomore player Ian Benfield, making his driving debut as he transported the Knights to and from on the BIG bus.   The Knights travel to Davidson on Tuesday September 24th for a 4:30 conference game against Davidson Day School. Release time for students is 1:45. 

KNIGHTS BEAT RIVAL AND CONFERENCE FOE STATESVILLE CHRISTIAN, STATESVILLE, NC; 4-1 SCORE; 7-4-0 Overall, 2-0 Foothills Athletic Conference     HICKORY, NC- September 17th, 2019 – For only the second time this season the Knights had a full complement of players healthy and it showed what the squad is capable of when running on all cylinders. All fifteen members of the club saw valuable minutes, each playing superb soccer. With the win the Knights jumped out to a 2-0 conference record, an important start to a very competitive Foothills Athletic Conference.    As expected, the Knights and Lions played in front of a large gathering as these two teams have battled against one another yearly and created a strong rivalry. The heat and tensions were high, but the Knights prevailed at home.   The Knights would score the first three goals of the contest. During minute number thirteen junior Garrison Mullis was looking to score the first goal of the contest but was fouled inside the box giving the Knights a penalty kick opportunity. That’s when junior Dylan Morrison stepped forward to set the tone, finding the back of the net for a 1-0 advantage.    Junior Chase Collins got in on the scoring by taking a corner kick set play from Mullis to jumpstart a comfortable margin, a 2-0 score over the visiting Lions. Then, right before the halftime whistle was sounded, sophomore Braden Runyon set up for another corner kick for the Knights and blasted a shot that ricocheted off the goalie’s hands for a commanding 3-0 advantage heading into the break.    The first twelve minutes of the second half there was a lot of back and forth as the defense on both sides started out strong. The Lions were able to score their first and only goal of the contest at the 52ndminute mark. Then, just as five minutes ran off the clock, Mullis once again found the back of the net on a beautiful assist from junior Dylan Morrison, taking the score to 4-1 in favor of the home Knights. This would be the last goal of the match as neither team could muster a score over the final twenty-three minutes.    Juniors Wyatt King and Braden Whitford along with sophomores Stephen Frye and Walker Harris did an admirable job on the offensive side setting up scoring opportunities for the Knights.    Junior Hugo Fournie once again showed his versatile play, contributing on both offense and defense. Juniors Caleb McMurray and Ben Vazquez along with sophomore Ian Benfield had solid contributions on the defensive side, holding the Lions to just one goal. Junior goalie Nate Walls continued his improved goalie play and is key to the Knights success this season. Freshman Michael Steinert played valuable minutes off the bench, exuding max effort to contribute on the defensive side of the pitch.    Senior defensive back Spencer Burton was the recipient of the HCA Battle Ball, an HCA tradition after each game awarded to the player with the best effort, attitude, performance and all-around impact on the outcome of the contest. Burton, undoubtedly playing his best game of his high school career, helped dominate the back line. The senior stifled any attack the Lions could muster.   The Knights are on the road for a 4:00 contest against North Hills Thursday before heading out for their annual High School Retreat Friday-Sunday.  

KNIGHTS SECURE WINS OVER ASHEVILLE TRAILBLAZERS, DAVIDSON DAY AND COME UP SHORT AGAINST WESTCHESTER DAY; 6-4-0 Overall, 1-0 Foothills Athletic Conference     Hickory Christian continued their improved play, earning a victory over Asheville Trailblazers (6-1), a tough loss against last year’s 2A 4thplace finisher Westchester Day out of High Point, NC (4-2) and finishing with a win over a tough Davidson Day squad (3-2, 2 OT’s). The win over visiting Davidson Day was the first conference game of the season.   Asheville Trailblazers: Against the Trailblazers, a game the Knights hosted at home, Garrison Mullis and Stephen Frye led the way offensively each scoring two goals. Braden Runyon, Walker Harris and Hugo Fournie each had one goal apiece. Mullis also had two assists on the game and Braden Whitford knotted one as well.    Westchester Academy: The Knights then went on the road to face last year’s opponent in the state final eight, Westchester Day. Although the Knights battled to the final whistle they came up just short. Ian Benfield and Dylan Morrison each scored a goal with Braden Runyon and Garrison Mullis receiving credit for the assists.    Dylan Morrison and Ian Benfield both were the recipients of the HCA Battle Ball, an HCA tradition after each game awarded to the player with the best effort, attitude, performance and all-around impact on the outcome of the contest.    Davidson Day: After coming up on the short end of several close contests up to this point in the season, the Knights hosted their first conference game and outlasted Davidson Day 3-2 in two overtime periods. The Knights, battled tested with a tough strength of schedule, were determined to come out on the winning side and did so with strong defensive pressure, ball possession and just plain ole grit.    Junior Dylan Morrison punched the first goal of the contest in at minute number six on and assist from Junior Garrison Mullis. Davidson Day would answer with goals in minutes fifty-one and seventy-four, taking a 2-1 lead with just 6 minutes remaining in the contest. At minute seventy-seven, Mullis broke free on a nice connection from Braden Runyon, and was fouled in the box setting up a critical penalty pick for the Knights. Coach Bruno Ramos elected to go with Runyon for the PK and the junior stepped forward and cashed in on the opportunity, tying the score at 2-2 and ultimately sending the game into overtime. In the first overtime at minute eighty-five, Junior Garrison Mullis would score giving the Knights a 3-2 advantage. Over the remaining five minutes of the first overtime period and the second 10-minute OT period the score would remain the same and the Knights would come out with the victory.    Chase Collins was the recipient of the HCA Battle Ball, an HCA tradition after each game awarded to the player with the best effort, attitude, performance and all-around impact on the outcome of the contest.   The Knights will host conference foe and rival Statesville Christian at home on Tuesday September 17thwith a 4:00 start. The game will be held at Neil Clark beside the HCA campus. 

KNIGHTS SECURE WINS OVER ASHEVILLE TRAILBLAZERS, DAVIDSON DAY AND COME UP SHORT AGAINST WESTCHESTER DAY; 6-4-0 Overall, 1-0 Foothills Athletic Conference     Hickory Christian continued their improved play, earning a victory over Asheville Trailblazers (6-1), a tough loss against last year’s 2A 4thplace finisher Westchester Day out of High Point, NC (4-2) and finishing with a win over a tough Davidson Day squad (3-2, 2 OT’s). The win over visiting Davidson Day was the first conference game of the season.   Asheville Trailblazers: Against the Trailblazers, a game the Knights hosted at home, Garrison Mullis and Stephen Frye led the way offensively each scoring two goals. Braden Runyon, Walker Harris and Hugo Fournie each had one goal apiece. Mullis also had two assists on the game and Braden Whitford knotted one as well.    Westchester Academy: The Knights then went on the road to face last year’s opponent in the state final eight, Westchester Day. Although the Knights battled to the final whistle they came up just short. Ian Benfield and Dylan Morrison each scored a goal with Braden Runyon and Garrison Mullis receiving credit for the assists.    Dylan Morrison and Ian Benfield both were the recipients of the HCA Battle Ball, an HCA tradition after each game awarded to the player with the best effort, attitude, performance and all-around impact on the outcome of the contest.    Davidson Day: After coming up on the short end of several close contests up to this point in the season, the Knights hosted their first conference game and outlasted Davidson Day 3-2 in two overtime periods. The Knights, battled tested with a tough strength of schedule, were determined to come out on the winning side and did so with strong defensive pressure, ball possession and just plain ole grit.    Junior Dylan Morrison punched the first goal of the contest in at minute number six on and assist from Junior Garrison Mullis. Davidson Day would answer with goals in minutes fifty-one and seventy-four, taking a 2-1 lead with just 6 minutes remaining in the contest. At minute seventy-seven. Mullis broke free on a nice connection from Braden Runyon, and was fouled in the box setting up a critical penalty pick for the Knights. Coach Bruno Ramos elected to go with Runyon for the PK and the junior stepped forward and cashed in on the opportunity, tying the score at 2-2 and ultimately sending the game into overtime. In the first overtime at minute eighty-five, Junior Garrison Mullis would score giving the Knights a 3-2 advantage. Over the remaining five minutes of the first overtime period and the second 10-minute OT period the score would remain the same and the Knights would come out with the victory.    Chase Collins was the recipient of the HCA Battle Ball, an HCA tradition after each game awarded to the player with the best effort, attitude, performance and all-around impact on the outcome of the contest.   The Knights will host conference foe and rival Statesville Christian at home on Tuesday September 17thwith a 4:00 start. The game will be held at Neil Clark beside the HCA campus. 

KNIGHTS SECURE WINS OVER ASHEVILLE TRAILBLAZERS, DAVIDSON DAY AND COME UP SHORT AGAINST WESTCHESTER DAY; 6-4-0 Overall, 1-0 Foothills Athletic Conference     Hickory Christian continued their improved play, earning a victory over Asheville Trailblazers (6-1), a tough loss against last year’s 2A 4thplace finisher Westchester Day out of High Point, NC (4-2) and finishing with a win over a tough Davidson Day squad (3-2, 2 OT’s). The win over visiting Davidson Day was the first conference game of the season.   Asheville Trailblazers: Against the Trailblazers, a game the Knights hosted at home, Garrison Mullis and Stephen Frye led the way offensively each scoring two goals. Braden Runyon, Walker Harris and Hugo Fournie each had one goal apiece. Mullis also had two assists on the game and Braden Whitford knotted one as well.    Westchester Academy: The Knights then went on the road to face last year’s opponent in the state final eight, Westchester Day. Although the Knights battled to the final whistle they came up just short. Ian Benfield and Dylan Morrison each scored a goal with Braden Runyon and Garrison Mullis receiving credit for the assists.    Dylan Morrison and Ian Benfield both were the recipients of the HCA Battle Ball, an HCA tradition after each game awarded to the player with the best effort, attitude, performance and all-around impact on the outcome of the contest.    Davidson Day: After coming up on the short end of several close contests up to this point in the season, the Knights hosted their first conference game and outlasted Davidson Day 3-2 in two overtime periods. The Knights, battled tested with a tough strength of schedule, were determined to come out on the winning side and did so with strong defensive pressure, ball possession and just plain ole grit.    Junior Dylan Morrison punched the first goal of the contest in at minute number six on and assist from Garrison Mullis. Davidson Day would answer with goals in minutes fifty-one and seventy-four, taking a 2-1 lead with just 6 minutes remaining in the contest. At minute seventy-seven Mullis broke free on a nice connection from Braden Runyon, and was fouled in the box setting up a critical penalty pick for the Knights. Coach Bruno Ramos elected to go with Runyon for the PK and the junior stepped forward and cashed in on the opportunity, tying the score at 2-2 and ultimately sending the game into overtime. In the first overtime at minute eighty-five, Junior Garrison Mullis would score giving the Knights a 3-2 advantage. Over the remaining five minutes of the first overtime period and the second 10-minute OT period the score would remain the same and the Knights would come out with the victory.    Chase Collins was the recipient of the HCA Battle Ball, an HCA tradition after each game awarded to the player with the best effort, attitude, performance and all-around impact on the outcome of the contest.   The Knights will host conference foe and rival Statesville Christian at home on Tuesday September 17thwith a 4:00 start. The game will be held at Neil Clark beside the HCA campus. 

KNIGHTS BATTLE HARD, COME UP SHORT AGAINST GASTON DAY SCHOOL, GASTONIA, NC; 4-2 SCORE; 4-3-0 Overall, 0-0 Foothills Athletic Conference     GASTONIA, NC- August 29th, 2019 – On a warm afternoon on the pitch, the Knights continued their daunting early season road travels. All seven of the Knights games thus far have been on the road. At this point of the 2019 campaign the Knights have played last years 2A state champion, 1A state champion, 1A state runner up, 3A member Asheville Christian and 2A Westminster Christian. To put the early season success in perspective the Knights have battled their way to a winning record despite a myriad of injuries and setbacks. Kudos to the Knights for showing courage and strength.    As expected, the Knights and Trojans put on an entertaining contest for the many fans in attendance.    Let’s get to the action!   Ten minutes in, the Trojans took the lead 1-0. At the 28thminute mark, the Knights would respond as junior Braden Whitford scored off a set play corner kick from junior Garrison Mullis, the score knotted at 1-1. The Trojans would answer with their second goal during minute thirty-three and move ahead 2-1. However, Whitford would score his second goal of the contest early in the second half off a beautiful assist from junior Dylan Morrison. At minute forty-four the Knights and Trojans were deadlocked at 2-2. An apparent (phantom) foul in the box gave the host Trojans some home cooking at the 47thminute mark as they were able to capitalize on their opportunity off a penalty kick, giving them the lead 3-2. The defensive battle would continue for the next thirty minutes until the Trojans punched it in during the 77thminute to finish off the scoring and securing a 4-2 victory.   Despite the loss, the Knights gained valuable experience and continued their quest to improve in all facets of their game. They also welcomed Dylan Morrison to the pitch, as he saw his first action as a Knights player. Morrison transferred to Hickory Christian this past off season and was cleared to play after rehabbing a groin injury the first month of the season.    (Oops! We forgot the battle ball winner) was the recipient of the HCA Battle Ball, an HCA tradition after each game awarded to the player with the best effort, attitude, performance and all-around impact on the outcome of the contest.    The team and parents capped off the trip to Gastonia with a quick, 2 hour meal at the local Wendy’s.    The Knights will host their first home game of the season on Tuesday September 3rdwith a 4:00 contest against the Asheville Trailblazers. The game will be held at Neil Clark beside the HCA campus. 

KNIGHTS START STRONG AND FINISH STRONG IN WIN OVER WESTMINSTER CHRISTIAN ACADEMY, SC; 4-1 SCORE; 4-2-0 Overall, 0-0 Foothills Athletic Conference     ROCK HILL, SC- August 26th, 2019 – The Knights trekked 1.5 hrs down south to take on the 2A Indians, their second visit to the Westminster campus over a three-year span. The trip would prove worthwhile for the Knights as they dominated the action on both sides of the pitch to win their fourth game in a row.   The contest pitted two first year head coaches as coach Bruno Ramos (Hickory Christian) and Jake Tassy (Westminster) squared off for the first time.    From the opening whistle the Knights took their aggressive, attacking style and hit payday with only 3 minutes ticking off the clock. Junior Garrison Mullis was the beneficiary of an assist from sophomore Stephen Frye who had received a nice touch pass from sophomore Braden Runyon. The Knights would control the tempo during the first half and struck again at the 17-minute mark, moving the score to 2-0. It was Frye’s turn to hit the back of the net as he took an assist from Runyon. The next 23 minutes saw the Knights dominate possession and tempo. Heading into halftime the Knights left several scoring opportunities on the field but felt good about being ahead by two goals.   True to their reputation, the Knights punched it in early as the second half got underway. Sophomore Walker Harris, who was battling a bloody nose after taking an elbow, was on the receiving end of a Braden Runyon right to left cross and knocked it in for a 3-0 lead at minute forty-three.    The host Indians reached net at minute sixty-three, putting the score at 3-1 and seemed to gain some enthusiasm and energy from their bench. Unfortunately for the Indians they would come up short on several good looks. The Knights, however, sealed the deal at the 77-minute mark as Mullis captured his second goal of the contest, increasing the margin to 4-1. Junior Hugo Fournie was credited with the assist.    Junior Hugo Fournie was the recipient of the HCA Battle Ball, an HCA tradition after each game awarded to the player with the best effort, attitude, performance and all-around impact on the outcome of the contest. Fournie, who hails from France as an exchange student, is one of the anchors of the HCA back line. His intensity, game smarts and good decision making allowed him to be a key contributor in the victory.     On the injury front, Junior Ben Vazquez, on the shelf for over three weeks from a lingering back injury, was cleared to play and contributed a solid 15 minutes for the Knights. It was Vazquez’ first action as a varsity soccer player and good things are expected as he continues to improve his conditioning. Junior Dylan Morrison is close to seeing his first action of the season after rehabbing a groin injury. Morrison participated in pre-game warm ups and will get some much-needed time at practice this week. He is scheduled to make his debut this Thursday.   The Knights travel to Gastonia on Thursday August 29thfor a 5:15 contest against Gaston Day School. Release time for students is 2:30.    2001 Gaston Day School Rd Gastonia, NC28056  

KNIGHTS OVERCOME EARLY ONE GOAL DEFICIT IN WIN OVER NORTHSIDE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY, NC; 5-2 SCORE; 3-2-0 Overall,  0-0 Foothills Athletic Conference     CHARLOTTE, NC- August 20th, 2019 – Battling somewhat damp and humid conditions, missing juniors Braden Whitford (quad), Dylan Morrison (groin) and Ben Vazquez (back) and without the services of freshman Michael Steinert the Knights took care of business. Steinert suffered what was perceived to be a potential concussion during pre-game warm ups and was forced to stay out due to concussion protocol. At the time of this press release Steinert’s mom Kathleen gave a thumbs up on his current condition. Steinert will be seen by the team athletic trainer, Nick, prior to Thursday’s practice.   The Knights, who entered the game on a 2-game winning streak fell behind early in the road contest just 5 minutes into play. However, sophomore scoring sensation Braden Runyon received a corner kick from junior Garrison Mullis to tie things at 1-1 at the 10-minute mark. Just one minute later Northside would receive a PK and found the back of the net to move ahead of the visiting Knights from Hickory and take a 2-1 lead. Runyon would strike again, this time at the 17-minute mark on a sensational near post cross from junior Hugo Fournie and the Knights would move ahead 2-2. Fournie wanted in on the scoring column and took a nice pass from Mullis at the 24-minute mark giving the Knights a 3-2 lead. Not to be outdone, sophomore Stephen Frye received an on-point cross from Runyon at minute 39 to secure a 4-2 advantage heading into halftime.    Mullis, who earlier was credited with an assist was the only score of the second half, securing a 5-2 victory to move the Knights winning streak to three. Eight grader Cade Walls, younger brother of junior goalie Nate Walls saw action in his second straight contest. The younger Walls was called upon to fill a spot on the varsity roster as several team members recover from injury. He played valuable minutes providing a much-needed rest for several of the players throughout the game.       Junior Caleb McMurray was the recipient of the HCA Battle Ball, an HCA tradition after each game awarded to the player with the best effort, attitude, performance and all-around impact on the outcome of the contest. McMurray, who anchors the HCA back line, was poised throughout the contest controlling the games tempo and making good decisions on the defensive side.    The Knights travel to Rock Hill, SC on Monday August 26thfor a 4:00 contest against Westminster Catawba Christian School, a 2A member of the Metrolina Athletic Conference (MAC).

KNIGHTS OVERCOME INSURMOUNTABLE ODDS IN WIN OVER ASHEVILLE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY, NC; 6-2 SCORE; 2-2-0 Overall, 0-0 Foothills Athletic Conference   ASHEVILLE, NC- August 15th, 2019 – Battling 90+ degree heat, still missing 3 key players from the team and most dauntingly without assistant coach Daryl Carter, the Knights did the unthinkable, taking down 3A power Asheville Christian Academy for the first time in 5 matchups.  The Knights, who had found their groove in the previous weekend’s tournament got on the board early in the 8th minute when Junior Hugo Fournie found fellow Junior Garrison Mullis with a long through ball in which Garrison neatly slid past a diving ACA keeper.   Although possession was fairly equal throughout the half, the Knights were far more dangerous in capitalizing on their opportunities.  Sophomore Braden Runyon got the Knights going again with a heroic steal from ACA’s center back and then muscled his way in to beat the keeper in the 25th minute. Heading into the second half the Knights from Hickory NC held a 2-0 advantage.  Just seven minutes into the second half, the Knights all but secured a victory when Garrison Mullis collected a long ball down the right line, played a beautiful ball into Braden Runyon, who one touched a curling eighteen yard strike around the outstretched hands of the ACA keeper.  Mullis didn’t stop there with a dominating performance when he collected a rocket shot off of the cross bar from Hugo Fournie.  In the 66th minute, Garrison calmly settled the ricochet and finished a perfectly placed strike to the lower right side of the net.  With a 4-0 lead, the Knights relaxed a bit and quickly gave up 2 goals at the 71st and 72nd mark to a very dangerous ACA team.  This created a wakeup call and sense of urgency that spurred Sophomore Walker Harris forward to score his first goal of the season in the 74th minute off of a follow up shot.  Braden Runyon then finished the scoring when he headed home a cheeky chip cross from fellow Sophomore Stephen Frye.  Braden finished the contest with 3 goals, bringing his total scoring to 9 for the season. Junior Garrison Mullis was the recipient of the HCA Battle Ball, a HCA tradition after each game awarded to the player with the best effort, attitude, performance and all around impact on the outcome of the contest. Mullis, who turned into Mr. Offense on this night with two goals, one assist and countless exposure of the ACA defense showed just how dangerous an attacker he will be the rest of the season for the Knights. The Knights return to action with an away game against Northside Christian on Tuesday August 20TH. The contest is slated to begin at 4:00 pm.

KNIGHTS ENTER THE WIN COLUMN WITH DOMINATING PERFORMANCE AGAINST THALES ACADEMY APEX, NC; 7-1 SCORE; 1-2-0 Overall, 0-0 Southern Piedmont Athletic Association (SPAA)    WILSON, NC- August 10th, 2019 – Heading into day three of the Dr. Robert Thomas Stone Memorial Tournament, the Knights were looking to find finish strong with a victory before making the 3hr 45-minute trek back to Hickory.    The Knights, who entered the game with only 11 players available, would go down a goal early at the 13thminute mark but would hold Thales Academy scoreless for the remainder of the contest.   Getting the scoring going for the Knights was Sophomore Braden Runyon with an assist by Junior Hugo Fournie at minute 19 to knot the score at 1-1. As the next 8 minutes entered into a defensive battle between the two teams, Braden Runyon once again struck the back of the net at the 27-minute mark aided by an assist from Sophomore Walker Harris. But the offensive minded Runyon wasn’t finished as he continued his first half scoring onslaught with another goal during the 30thminute. This time he was the recipient of a beautiful pass from Junior Garrison Mullis who was credited with the assist.   Heading into the second half the Knights from Hickory NC held a 3-1 advantage.    Less than two minutes had ticked off the clock to start the second half and Sophomore Walker Harris weaved his way into the box and drew a foul. Junior Garrison Mullis was directed by head coach Bruno Ramos to take the penalty shot. Mullis obliged and nailed the right back corner to move the score to 4-1 in favor of the Knights at the 42ndminute mark.    Sophomore Braden Runyon was provided an assist from Junior Wyatt King and Runyon nailed the ball past goalie to increase the advantage to 5-1, 46 minutes into the game. With just six more minutes ticking off the clock at minute number 52, King decided to get in on the scoring parade and took a pass from teammate Garrison Mullis (Mullis’ 2ndassist of the contest), and placed it past the diving goalie, giving the Knights their 6thgoal of the afternoon and the scoreboard now reads 6-1.   At minute 59, Sophomore Ian Benfield found Junior Braden Whitford for a quick punch in, giving the Knights their final goal of the contest and a winning mark of 7-1.   Sophomore Braden Runyon was the recipient of the HCA Battle Ball, a HCA tradition after each game awarded to the player with the best effort, attitude, performance and all around impact on the outcome of the contest. Runyon, who went on a scoring tear during the contest with four goals, was a valuable leader throughout the game, encouraging teammates, being a strong communicator and controlling possession.   Honorable mention went to Sophomore Walker Harris and Freshman Michael Steinert.    The Knights return to action with an away game against rival Asheville Christian Academy on Thursday August 15TH. The contest is slated to begin at 4:30 pm.

DESPITE A STRONG FINISH, KNIGHTS COMEBACK HELD IN CHECK AS THE CLOCK READ 00:00 AS THEY THREATENED THEIR THIRD GOAL OF THE CONTEST IN 4-2 LOSS TO GREENFEILD SCHOOL; 0-2-0 Overall, 0-0 Southern Piedmont Athletic Association (SPAA)    WILSON, NC- August 9th, 2019 – Heading into day two of the Dr. Robert Thomas Stone Memorial Tournament, the Knights faced off against 2018 state runner up Greenfield School.    These two teams have had some serious battles through the years, and this would prove to be no different.    The Greenfield School, who’s mascot is also the Knights, came out blazing in the first three minutes of the contest. The host Knights scored two goals in the game’s first 4 minutes, at the 2-minute mark and 4 minute marks respectively. Greenfield school would score two more goals in the first half at minutes 20 and 34.    The second half would turn into a dominant effort for the Knights from Hickory Christian Academy. A tale of two half’s started out questionable for HCA as starting Sophomore Walker Harris went down with an apparent achilles tendon tendonitis injury. Walker played admirably during the first half and is coming along nicely as a key contributor. As the sophomore was icing on the bench Coach Ramos called upon freshman Michael Steinert. Steinert, the lone freshman on the squad played solid for his first game action of his varsity career.   The Knights from HCA would control possession and game tempo the entire final 40 minutes of action. The Knights finally struck payday in minute 76 as Junior Hugo Fournie found Sophomore Captain Braden Runyon to put the score 4-1. Runyon was the recipient of another great assist, this time from Junior Garrision Mullis at minute 78 as Runyon blasted point number two to the back of the net. The Knights were once again on the attack near goal as time expired in the contest.    Senior Captain Spencer Burton continued his stellar all-around play and leadership. The back line of Junior Captain Caleb McMurray, Hugo Fournie and sophomore Ian Benfield had a stellar second half of action to hold the Greenfield School scoreless. Fournie was also dominant with his counter attack during the second half. Also contributing to the scoreless half was Junior goalie Nate walls. Juniors Garrison Mullis, Wyatt King and sophomore Stephen Frye also continued their all-around play making key contributions throughout the contest and putting the Knights in position for scoring opportunities.    Junior Braden Whitford was the recipient of the HCA Battle Ball, a HCA tradition after each game awarded to the player with the best effort, attitude, performance and all around impact on the outcome of the contest. Whitford, as acknowledged by head coach Bruno Ramos, worked the hardest and gave maximum effort and team contribution for the entire 80 minutes of action.    Juniors Dylan Morrison and Ben Vazquez did not play for the second consecutive contest and look to return to action in a couple weeks.    During the post-game team recap, head coach Bruno Ramos’ message was very clear, “Guys, your second half effort was great. All of you made great progress tonight. Let’s pick up tomorrow like you finished today and let’s leave Wilson with a victory”. Assistant coach Josh Walker had a word of caution, “We have to be ready at first whistle. We cannot let teams jump out on us like this and let’s hold one another accountable to make sure we guard against this moving forward”.   The Knights return to action with their final game of the Dr. Robert Thomas Stone Tournament game against Thales Academy from Apex on Saturday August 10TH. The contest is slated to begin at 5:00 pm @ the Greenfield School Complex.

KNIGHTS COME UP SHORT AGAINST NEUSE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY AFTER A HARD-FOUGHT OVERTIME LOSS BY A 1-0 SCORE; 0-1-0 Overall, 0-0 Southern Piedmont Athletic Association (SPAA)    WILSON, NC- August 8th, 2019 – After a week of camp and a Monday night pre-season contest against HCA Alumni, the HCA Knights made a 4-hour road trip to Wilson to compete in the Dr. Robert Thomas Stone Memorial Tournament at Greenfield School.   The match was the first game for new HCA head coach Bruno Ramos. Ramos took over the program after HCA legend Josh Walker retired after 15 seasons. Walker led the Knights to multiple conference, state and national championships during his tenure. Walker continues to be an integral part of the program serving as assistant coach.    The contest pitted two successful programs against one another. The Knights are coming off a final four season in the 2-A ranks and the Lions captured the 1-A State Championship during the 2018 fall campaign.    The first half was a heated defensive battle as both teams played numerous first year players and dealt with temperatures that saw the heat index well over 100 degrees. This proved to be a difficult task, especially for the Knights as Juniors Ben Vazquez and Dylan Morrison were out nursing injuries. Sophomore Stephen Frye was dealing with foot issues throughout the contest. This left the Knights with limited subbing opportunities that required many to play 80+ minutes.    After dealing with the long day of travel, heat and first game nerves, both teams went to halftime break with the score knotted at 0-0.   The second half was pretty much the same, however both the Knights and Lions were able to work through some first game jitters to play inspired soccer to the end of regulation. Both teams had multiple opportunities to score in regulation, but neither could seem to capitalize.   Shortly after the start of the sudden death overtime period the Lions broke free on a counter attack and punched the ball in the back of the net for a thrilling 1-0 victory.    Junior goalie Nate Walls was the recipient of the HCA Battle Ball, a HCA tradition after each game awarded to the player with the best effort, attitude, performance and all around impact on the outcome of the contest. Walls finished the game with three critical saves at the 56, 60- and 65-minute mark during regulation that kept the game scoreless.    During the post-game team recap, head coach Bruno Ramos, despite the loss, was pleased with the team’s overall effort, grit and determination despite being down multiple key contributors. Ramos also noted the small details of capitalizing on your opportunities and paying closer attention to the little details. Overall Ramos saw a lot of growth as a team and is excited about what the season will bring for the Knights, both on the pitch and in their faith.    The Knights return to action with game two of the Dr. Robert Thomas Stone Tournament game against Greenfield School on Friday August 21st. The contest is slated to begin at 7:00 pm @ the Greenfield School Complex.