Newberry, South Carolina, September 6, 2025
News Summary
Blake Mayes has been inducted into the Newberry College Athletics Hall of Fame as part of the class of 2025. A former standout athlete, Mayes reflects on the influence of his family, coaches, and teammates throughout his challenging yet rewarding journey as a student-athlete. Despite facing numerous injuries, he credits Newberry College for his personal growth and values learned, stressing the importance of mental health and balance in academics and athletics for current students.
Newberry, South Carolina – Blake Mayes has been officially inducted into the Newberry College Athletics Hall of Fame as a member of the class of 2025. Throughout his journey as a student-athlete, Mayes has frequently expressed gratitude for the substantial influence of his teammates, coaches, family, and friends on his life and career in athletics.
Mayes, whose athletic journey has been marred by numerous surgeries during and after his playing days, credits his experiences in football and at Newberry College with shaping his character and life path. Beginning his football career in the fourth grade, Mayes showcased early talent that would lead him to a successful high school career in football, wrestling, and powerlifting. After graduating, he spent a post-graduate year at Hargrave Military Academy before choosing Newberry College over other offers.
At Newberry, Mayes made an immediate impact by starting for four years, even as a true freshman. His tenure in college was marked by challenges, including frequent injuries, but he still managed to leave a significant mark on the program. Mayes attributes much of his perseverance to the work ethic displayed by his parents, who never missed an event during his athletic career.
Notable moments in Mayes’ career at Newberry include the memorable upset over Wofford during their homecoming in 1995 and winning the bronze derby three times out of four. The supportive community and strong academic programs provided at Newberry were pivotal for Mayes, who believes that his experiences taught him valuable life lessons, including teamwork, discipline, and resilience.
Throughout his time as a student-athlete, Mayes learned about accountability and the far-reaching impacts of his decisions on others. He emphasized the significance of time management and self-control in achieving success, lessons he hopes to impart to current and future student-athletes. He acknowledges the contributions of influential figures at Newberry College like Coach John Creager and Coach Russell Spires, as well as professors Dr. Anthony Falco and Dr. Fred Green who provided guidance during his academic career.
In reflecting upon his journey, Mayes expresses gratitude towards his family, especially his late parents, who remained steadfast supporters throughout his athletic endeavors. He advises current students to strike a balance between academics and athletics while prioritizing their mental health. Additionally, Mayes encourages them to prepare for life beyond sports, to explore passions outside of athletics, and to foster meaningful relationships throughout their college experience.
Blake Mayes looks back on his time at Newberry College with both pride and gratitude, recognizing the institution’s profound influence on his personal and professional growth. As he moves forward, he is committed to carrying the spirit of Newberry College and aims to make a positive impact on the lives of others.
FAQ
- What is Blake Mayes known for?
- Blake Mayes is known for being a former athlete at Newberry College and is newly inducted into the Newberry College Athletics Hall of Fame for his contributions to the football program.
- When was Mayes inducted into the Hall of Fame?
- Blake Mayes was inducted into the Newberry College Athletics Hall of Fame as a member of the class of 2025.
- What challenges did Mayes face during his athletic career?
- During his athletic career, Blake Mayes faced numerous injuries that required multiple surgeries, yet he persevered and maintained a successful playing tenure.
- What does Mayes advise current student-athletes?
- Mayes advises student-athletes to prioritize mental health, prepare for life after sports, maximize college opportunities, and build meaningful relationships outside of athletics.
- How has Mayes’ family influenced his career?
- Mayes attributes much of his work ethic and perseverance to his parents, who consistently supported him throughout his journey in athletics.
| Key Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Induction Year | 2025 |
| Career Highlights | 4-year starter, upset over Wofford, won bronze derby 3 of 4 times |
| Challenges Faced | Numerous injuries, multiple surgeries |
| Values Learned | Teamwork, discipline, resilience, accountability |
| Advice for Students | Prioritize mental health, balance academics and athletics, prepare for life after sports |
| Influential Coaches | Coach John Creager, Coach Russell Spires |
| Academic Support | Professors Dr. Anthony Falco, Dr. Fred Green |
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Additional Resources
- Newberry Observer: Newberry College Hall of Fame Spotlight Honors Blake Mayes
- Wikipedia: Newberry College
- WIS TV: Former Newberry College Football Player Files Second Lawsuit Over Wrongful Arrest
- Google Search: Blake Mayes
- On3: Newberry College Football Player Mycheal Edwards Wallace Killed In Shooting
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Newberry, South Carolina
- FloFootball: Newberry Football Schedule 2025
- Google News: Newberry College Football
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