Pigskin Preview: New Hanover searching for its next leader at quarterback

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) –New Hanover enters the 2026 season looking to build on a six-win campaign and a trip to the second round of the playoffs during head coach John Fuller’s first year.

As Fuller enters year two, he wants the Wildcats to bring the same effort every day, regardless of the conditions.

“That’s the mentality we gotta have. You gotta come to work every day. It doesn’t matter what

it looks like,” Fuller said. “It’s just like life. Life’s gonna throw you a curveball. You gotta be able to adjust to it.”

The Wildcats return their most experience along the offensive line, while several younger players are stepping into larger roles elsewhere on the field.

One of the biggest questions is at quarterback, where seniors Julian Robles and Ronan Brady are competing for the starting job after both saw varsity snaps last season.

“We’re just looking for somebody who’s gonna take the bull by the horns and lead our football team,” Fuller said.

Robles said he is embracing the competition and focusing on the details of the position.

“I’ve always competed my whole life. It’s just what I like to do,” Robles said. “Footwork’s really, really, really important as a quarterback, and just communicating.”

Brady said leadership and communication are also key parts of playing quarterback.

“Making sure everybody knows what’s happening, ’cause we are supposed to be a leader and tell everyone what’s going on,” Brady said.

Brady also has confidence in the players surrounding whoever wins the starting job.

“I think we got a good group of running backs. I think we’ll be able to move the ball well with our running backs,” Brady said. “Our wide receivers as well, got a couple good guys out there that can catch the ball and make some plays.”

For both quarterbacks, the position goes beyond running the offense. It is also about commanding the huddle and setting the tone for the team.

“Be able to impact these guys, even the young guys, just kinda lead by example and show them what it means to be a Wildcat,” Brady said.

Robles said the Wildcats know they could face doubters this season, but he believes the team’s mentality can make the difference.

“We’re gonna be doubted a lot this season,” Robles said. “We don’t have a lot of size to us this year, but we have a lot of heart.”

Coach Fuller plans to name a starting quarterback after the team’s upcoming scrimmage. New Hanover opens the season Aug. 21 on the road against New Bern.