Myrtle Beach, SC, September 30, 2025
News Summary
Horry County high school football teams are facing significant challenges this season due to restrictive transfer policies. With only Loris remaining unbeaten, local teams have struggled, yielding a combined record of 13-28, highlighted by heavy defeats. Coaches express concern over the South Carolina High School League’s transfer policy that leaves them disadvantaged. As they prepare for crucial matches, including one against St. James, the community grapples with recent eligibility issues affecting over 350 student-athletes and the athletic program’s integrity.
Myrtle Beach, SC – Horry County high school football programs are grappling with significant struggles this season amidst the challenges posed by a transfer policy limitation from the South Carolina High School League. The week of August 15, 2025, has been labeled a “reset week” for these teams following a disappointing performance, where they finished with an overall record of 3-7 last Friday. This situation has raised concerns among coaches and stakeholders regarding their ability to compete effectively.
Excluding the unbeaten Loris Lions, who currently boast a 5-0 record and are deemed a contender for the Class 3A championship, the remaining high school teams in Horry County are performing subpar with a combined record of 13-28. The last three weeks have seen local teams endure harsh defeats, with ten losses by 20 points or more, and four of those losses exceeding 30 points just last week.
Coaching Perspectives on Policy Effects
Many coaches in the area believe that Horry County football has historically faced difficulties when compared to teams in other regions within South Carolina. The South Carolina High School League’s recently implemented one-time free transfer policy is causing a divide, allowing many schools across the state to benefit from incoming talent. However, due to Horry County Schools’ “red zone” policy, schools operating at or above 95% capacity, such as Carolina Forest, Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, St. James, and Socastee, are unable to accept these transfer students. This rule has left local high school teams at a competitive disadvantage.
Specific Team Performances and Challenges
Myrtle Beach’s head coach has conveyed frustration over this disadvantage, particularly highlighted after a tough 59-21 defeat against Irmo, a team that gained from 12 transfers. As Horry County continues its struggle, only five programs are set to compete in Week 5 of the high school football action. For Myrtle Beach, an upcoming match against Cane Bay could be significant, especially as starting quarterback Tanner Gaddy returns from a concussion. Gaddy’s previous game saw him competing effectively despite some lingering rust, contributing to the team’s 28-21 victory over Cane Bay.
This upcoming fixture against St. James promises to be crucial as well, particularly since St. James has had a disappointing season with losses to Berkeley (54-0) and James Island (63-7). Coaches across the county are also being vigilant about the potential impacts of weather on both practice and game schedules as they prepare to enter regional play next Friday.
Broader Implications and Community Concerns
The athletic landscape at Myrtle Beach High School is further complicated by recent eligibility issues that have impacted over 350 student-athletes, leading to a significant fine. The situation has prompted the resignation of the previous athletic director, raising concerns within the community about the school’s future athletic integrity.
Looking ahead, a notable highlight in high school football is the Touchstone Energy Bowl scheduled for December 13, which will showcase top senior players and culminate in the announcement of Mr. Football during halftime. This annual event brings attention to outstanding talent within the state and provides students with a chance to shine beyond the challenges faced within their local programs.
As Horry County’s high school football teams navigate these trying times, the community’s focus will remain on finding solutions to enhance competitiveness while overcoming the obstacles presented by current policies.
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Irmo Triumphs in Horry County High School Football
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Additional Resources
- My Horry News: Myrtle Beach Football Outlasts Cane Bay
- Greenville Online: SC High School Football Scores Live Updates
- Myrtle Beach Online: Local News Article
- Sports Illustrated: SC High School Football Top 25 Rankings
- Herald Online: High School Sports Article
- Wikipedia: South Carolina High School League
- Google Search: South Carolina High School Football
- Google Scholar: High School Football Transfer Policies
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Football
- Google News: High School Football South Carolina
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