White Knoll High School has found its new head football coach and athletics director.

On Tuesday, Lexington School District 1 approved the hiring of Dutch Fork defensive coordinator Nicholas Pelham to take over the Timberwolves’ program. The school has scheduled a virtual press conference Friday to announce its newest sideline leader.

The Michigan native brings 20 years of experience as a defensive coordinator. The past 5 years has seen Pelham lead 1 of the Palmetto State’s top defenses which has played a prominent role in the team’s run of 5 straight Class 5A titles. 

In replacing Dean Howell, Pelham sees an opportunity to lead a program he believes possesses great potential despite competing in the same region as his future former employer. 

“I have always had my eye on the White Knoll football program,” he said. “I believe that it can be among the great programs in the state of South Carolina. 1st and foremost, in my years competing against White Knoll, I have always been impressed by the toughness and talent of the White Knoll athletes.
"Another positive is the supportive leadership at White Knoll High School, led by (Principal Edward) Daughtrey. That leadership will allow for a successful athletic department and football program. I also believe that the infrastructure is available to vertically align the entire White Knoll athletics department. 

“By collaborating with White Knoll Middle School and Carolina Springs Middle School, we can integrate all athletes from seventh through twelfth grade in all of our sports to increase the overall success of our teams and enhance the experience of our student athletes.” 

Pelham’s familiarity with Region 5-5A he believes doesn’t give him an advantage coming into White Knoll. He acknowledged it will “odd” competing against Dutch Fork, but once the games starts, he will approach it as another game. 

“It's a very good region that is full of excellent coaches,” he said. “All of the programs have all been improving in the last few years so I am looking forward to some hotly contested region games in the future.” 

Pelham is anxious to build a “winning mentality” at White Knoll and believes it can be done quickly through hard work and placing expectations of his athletes. 

“Our first point of emphasis across our entire athletics department will be to further develop our athletes through increased weight training,” he said. “The other point of emphasis that I have is an increased level of expectations for our athletes and coaches at White Knoll.”