News Summary
Deshun Kitchings, a standout tight end from Newberry College, is back as the tight ends and H-backs coach following the departure of Dre Harris. Kitchings, a 2022 graduate and former NFL player, aims to inspire the next generation after a successful college career and experience with the Chicago Bears and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. His return promises to energize the Wolves as they prepare for the new football season.
Deshun Kitchings is Back in Action at Newberry College Football!
Newberry, South Carolina – Exciting times are ahead for the Newberry College football team as they welcome back one of their own! Deshun Kitchings, a star tight end during his playing days, has taken on the role of tight ends and H-backs coach for the Wolves. This comes after the departure of another former Newberry standout, Dre Harris, who is heading off to pursue professional football in Germany.
A Star on the Field and Now a Coach
Kitchings is no stranger to the gridiron. He left a significant mark during his time at Newberry College, graduating in 2022 after a standout career that included back-to-back South Atlantic Conference championships in 2021 and 2022. He also played a crucial role in the first-ever SAC Championship game held at Setzler Field in 2022, showcasing his knack for stepping up during pivotal moments.
Before diving into coaching, Kitchings made waves in the NFL. He signed as an undrafted free agent with the Chicago Bears and joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the 2023 preseason. His playing days were marked by resilience and dedication, and now he plans to share his knowledge and experience with the next generation of players.
Record-Setting Receiver
During his time as a player, Kitchings amassed impressive statistics that have earned him a permanent spot in the College’s history. He totaled 103 receptions for 1,773 yards and scored nine touchdowns. He ranks eighth in career receiving yards at Newberry College, a testament to his talent and hard work.
In the 2022 season alone, he led the team with 646 receiving yards from 31 catches, which included four touchdown receptions. Kitchings also demonstrated his versatility by contributing in various roles; he was second on the team in all-purpose yards (1,219) that season, with a dazzling average of 31.2 yards per kick return. His longest return was a breathtaking 83 yards against Limestone, electrifying the crowd and showcasing his thrilling speed.
From Player to Coach
Before officially joining the Newberry coaching staff, Kitchings had already begun influencing young players as a coach at South Aiken High School. His transition from playing to coaching seems like a natural evolution for the athlete who has so much to give back to the sport he loves. Head coach Todd Knight is thrilled about Kitchings’ return, noting that his NFL experience and positive attitude will undoubtedly be a benefit to the program.
As fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming season, Kitchings’ return as an integral part of the coaching staff promises to bring fresh energy and perspective to the team. With the combination of his expertise, enthusiasm, and familiarity with the Wolves, it’s clear that Deshun Kitchings is ready to make waves once again at Newberry College.
A Bright Future Ahead
As the Wolves gear up for another exciting season, players and fans alike are buzzing with anticipation for what this new chapter will bring. Kitchings is certainly a name to watch as he embarks on this new journey, guiding the team’s tight ends and H-backs. His journey from a player who left a lasting legacy to a coach who is ready to shape the future of Newberry College football is a story filled with inspiration.
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Additional Resources
- Newberry Observer: Deshun Kitchings Joins Newberry College Football Staff
- Wikipedia: Newberry College
- ABC Columbia: Deshun Kitchings Signs UDFA With Chicago Bears
- Google Search: Deshun Kitchings
- WLTX: NFL Newberry News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: American Football
- Newberry Observer: Track & Field Teams Perform Well
- Google News: Newberry College
- Post and Courier: South Aiken Celebrates Student-Athletes
Author: STAFF HERE NEWBERRY
The NEWBERRY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewberry.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Newberry, Newberry County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Newberry Opera House performances, Newberry Arts Fest, and the Newberry County Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Newberry County Chamber of Commerce and the Newberry Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and agriculture that power the local economy such as Amick Farms and Newberry Mills. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
