Former EHS two-sport standout Orton picks the Scots

Published 10:51 am Thursday, June 22, 2023

By Ron Marvel

Star Correspondent

In front of family and friends, Elizabethton Cyclones Track and Field and Football player Teddy Orton made his choice known recently when he decided on Maryville College. Acknowledged as one of the best athletes in the area Orton talked about the ability to play both sports and the fact that several former Cyclone standouts, including former EHS player Bryson Rollins and Corey Russell, are already at Maryville College as the deciding factor. “I visited, I liked it and knowing a couple guys already down there makes it easier. I will be able to focus and compete in the hurdles as well so that made a difference; I really liked the coaches too”. The fact that Maryville is known for throwing the football stood out to the speedy wide receiver. “They throw it up to 40 times a game that makes it exciting and fun as a receiver who wants the ball,” Orton shared. In all likelihood, Orton will get in snaps at both special teams and as the slot receiver for the Scots; film will tell you he has the ability to be a possession type receiver who can move the chains when called on.

Teddy Orton will long be known for not just being a standout on the gridiron but for often bringing home the gold in track. Orton was part of a Cyclones football team that won back-to-back State Championships but he also took State honors in two events in track and field in addition he took 3^rd place at State in the Decathlon. Orton was the Player of the Week at the 3 and 4 star level as well as an All-County and All-Conference player, recently receiving the Angie Barker award for his accomplishments in track and field. Head Cyclones Football Coach Shawn Witten not only recognized the player at Orton’s signing but the person as well “he always has that smile, very coachable kid, he’s never cheated track or football in my time the loyalty and hard work he’s that guy you can lean on, there is not one negative you can say about Teddy. I am really excited to see what he does at the next level, we appreciate all he did for our program.” EHS Track Coach Matt Hill spoke to Orton’s athletic ability and performance during the State Track meet in Murfreesboro and his astonishing finish in the hurdles during the meet. “When we were at State, the other coaches would tell their kids how to prepare and perform against Teddy; it’s a statement about him as a competitor and athlete; I know we will always remember this season with Teddy,” Coach Hill stated.

For Teddy Orton, he couldn’t imagine being anything else besides a Cyclone. “Elizabethton made me the athlete and person I am, it’s a special place, my friends It shaped me into what I am and I will always be grateful”. On the Maryville side, Head Scots Coach Ben Fox continues to add to his collection of Carter County players; “we are excited to add Teddy; coming from Elizabethton, we know he is well coached and has a love of football installed in him, he has that combination of great hands, speed and physicality you are looking for in a receiver. He also has a strong connection with Bryson Rollins, we are just excited to have him in our program”.  An athlete can receive no higher honor that being called that favorite kid to coach for Teddy Orton that compliment came in several different directions; the person Teddy Orton is will make Maryville athletics better, that significant athletic ability is just icing on the cake.