Clinton High School has formally established the Dark Horse Ring of Honor, a new initiative recognizing the athletes and coaches whose achievements and character have shaped decades of Dark Horse athletic tradition. The program honors both living and deceased individuals who made significant contributions to Clinton High School or the former Sampson High School.
Purpose of the Ring of Honor
The Ring of Honor is designed to acknowledge players and coaches whose performances, leadership, and community impact have left a lasting legacy. Nominations will be reviewed annually by a designated selection committee, with inductees recognized publicly throughout the school year.
The committee is chaired by the Clinton High School athletic director, who votes only in the event of a tie. Five voting members from the school community are appointed to serve set terms, while the school principal serves as a permanent, non-voting member.
Members may abstain in cases involving themselves, their immediate family, or teams they coached or played for. No member may serve more than two consecutive terms.
Eligibility Requirements
For Athletes
To be considered, an athlete must:
- Have played at least two varsity seasons at Clinton High or Sampson High.
- Be graduated for at least five years.
- Have demonstrated strong character during and after high school.
- The committee may weigh factors such as:
- All-State selections
- State championships or runner-up finishes
- School statistical records or leadership
- MVP honors
- Participation in major all-star events
- College or professional athletic careers
- Community service and post-graduation contributions
For Coaches
Eligible coaches must:
- Have coached at Clinton High or Sampson High for at least five years
- Demonstrate exceptional leadership, character, and program impact
- Considerations include:
- Sectional, regional, or state championships
- Coaching athletes in state-level competition
- Coaching in all-star events
- Earning conference, regional, state, or national coaching awards
- Building or establishing successful athletic programs
- Strong win totals or winning percentages
- The committee also holds authority to revoke membership by a 4–1 vote if a public dishonor arises.
A maximum of five inductees will be selected each year (the inaugural class may exceed five).
Nominations are evaluated using a point-based system emphasizing individual and team accomplishments.
Inductees will be honored at football, basketball, and soccer games, and each will receive a plaque.
Their name and photo will be permanently displayed at Clinton High School.
A majority vote of four out of five is required for induction.
Information will be released through local radio, newspapers, social media, and the school website.
A $25 non-refundable application fee is required with each nomination.
How to Nominate
Nominations for athletes or coaches must be submitted by September 1 each year. For the current application cycle, materials should be delivered or mailed to:
Brad Spell, Athletic Director
Clinton High School
340 Indian Town Road
Clinton, NC 28328
Forms require detailed documentation of the nominee’s accomplishments. Contact information for the applicant must also be included.
The packet also includes a separate nomination form for Facility Naming Rights, allowing individuals to be honored through the naming of athletic facilities, following similar documentation requirements and the same May 1, 2026 deadline.