LAKE WACCAMAW — The 2026-27 school year see new leaders in two East Columbus sports programs. Vinston Thorpe will guide the East Columbus football team while Hunter Hackney is set to lead the Gators in baseball.
Thorpe takes over a team that went 3-9 last year under Fred Pedro, who guided the team to its first playoff win in 12 years by defeating North Stokes 32-21. Thorpe is a graduate of EE Smith High School and played collegiately at Mt. San Jacinto Junior College and UNC-Pembroke. He also played pro and semi-pro football. Vinston Thorpe comes in as a “pass happy” coach who led an explosive attack as offensive coordinator at Kinston High School. The Kinston Vikings were the State Runners-up in 3A football last year under his leadership.
Hunter Hackney will take over the baseball program in the spring of 2027. Hackney replaces 12-year coach Brad Smith, who guided the Gators to the baseball 1A Eastern Championship last year.
Hackney played his collegiate years at St. Andrew. He has head coaching experience at the pro and collegiate level. He previously was the head coach at West Craven High School. Both coaches are looking forward to their upcoming seasons.
