The persistence of a former Crest High School football standout has earned him a full scholarship to Gardner-Webb University.
At a recent team meeting, Caleb Borders was recognized for his many contributions to the football program since joining prior to the 2021 fall season. Before concluding his message, first-year Runnin’ Bulldogs coach Cris Reisert asked the Shelby native to stand and informed the redshirt junior receiver that he had been awarded a full scholarship.
A NEW LEAD DOG: Gardner-Webb football is heading to the Midwest to find a new head coach. Here’s what to expect.
TWICE BEAUTIFUL: Gardner-Webb Football wins Big South OVC title and FCS playoff spot
“Absolutely no one deserves it more,” Reisert said in a social media post capturing the moment. “No one loves Gardner-Webb more, no one works harder, no one is more dedicated and no one makes more plays. I am so proud of Caleb and I appreciate you.”
Borders caught Gardner-Webb’s attention during the 2021 spring season when he caught 17 passes for 400 yards and eight touchdowns as a senior, helping Crest to a 6-2 record. For his work, Borders was named an All-Big South 3A player and played in the East-West All-Star Game.
It also caught the attention of Gardner-Webb, with whom he signed a national letter of intent shortly after the season ended. Although Borders did not play in his first season, his role became significantly more important over the last two seasons, helping the Runnin’ Bulldogs to back-to-back conference titles and FCS playoff appearances.
In the 20 games of his career, he recorded 16 pass catches for 204 yards and three touchdowns and also served as a kick and punt returner.
