Pigskin Preview: Hoggard football opens practice with veteran roster and state title dreams

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — High school football teams across North Carolina officially opened fall practice this week, including Hoggard High School, where the Vikings are preparing for another postseason run after falling one game short of the state championship last season.

Hoggard finished the 2025 season with 12 wins, captured another conference championship, and advanced to the regional final before its playoff run came to an end.

Head Coach Craig Underwood said the first day of practice brings renewed energy as the team begins preparing for the upcoming season.

The Vikings return an experienced roster, including 30 seniors, with veteran players on both sides of the ball.

Senior quarterback Matthew Boring is expected to lead the offense in his final high school season. Boring said the team has used last year’s playoff loss as motivation heading into the new campaign.

“It was heartbreaking, definitely a tough loss for sure, but we learned a lot from it,” Boring said.

Underwood said Boring has embraced a leadership role and will be counted on to guide the team both on and off the field.

Senior linebacker JP Meyers said the Vikings’ identity is built on effort and physical play, regardless of size or expectations.

Hoggard opens the 2026 season on Aug. 21 with a non-conference home game against Richmond Senior. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.