WHITEVILLE—The 1965 Whiteville High School football team was recognized recently for its achievements 50 years ago at halftime of a Whiteville football game, according to various media reports including the Wilmington Star-News.

       Whiteville lost its season opener that year to Lumberton and went on to post an 11-1 record and earn a regional championship.  That was during a period of about 12 years where the NCHSAA football playoffs did not culminate with a state championship. There were four regional playoff games and Whiteville defeated Burgaw 19-13, which was as far as a team could go in the 2-A classification during that time.

       According to the story, Whiteville had a tremendous defensive, allowing just 5.6 points per game and holding all but one opponent to fewer than 35 yards rushing.

       More than 20 members of that Whiteville team were recognized during the ceremony.