One eagle putt can win a tournament. It can’t build a career.

In this episode of Home Grown, Western Carolina golfer Tyler Jones strips the game down to what actually matters. Before the wins came early mornings, redshirt frustration, and a choice to keep working when progress wasn’t guaranteed. Raised around his grandparents' driving range in the Half Moon community of Jacksonville, North Carolina, Tyler learned early that talent opens doors—but discipline keeps them open.

He talks honestly about getting humbled in college, resetting his confidence through faith, and why transferring to Western Carolina changed everything. From mountain golf adjustments to pressure-packed finishes, Tyler explains how he trusts his preparation when nerves hit and why one bad swing doesn’t get to decide the day.

This isn’t a highlight reel. It’s a blueprint for staying grounded, staying hungry, and finding your edge when no one’s clapping.

Kate Wilson didn’t just join a program—she helped build one.

From launching Croatan High School’s girls lacrosse team to becoming the first player in school history to sign a Division I scholarship, Kate’s path is rooted in leadership, resilience, and doing the work when no blueprint exists. In this episode of Home Grown, she breaks down how teaching teammates sharpened her own game, why culture matters more than stats, and how a state championship was won long before the opening draw.

We dive into the reality of Division I life at Liberty—position changes, scout-team battles, and 5:45 a.m. practices—along with the academic grind that led her to graduate magna cum laude in just two years. Now pursuing graduate studies and a career in sports operations, Kate reflects on identity, balance, and redefining success beyond the scoreboard.

This is a story about lifting others up, earning every step, and carrying your roots wherever the game takes you.

Follow Kate's journey on Instagram @akw.820

Amaire Caines didn’t wait for a moment—he worked until one showed up.

From Swansboro to the next level, Amaire’s journey is built on early mornings, bruising reps, and a mindset that refuses shortcuts. In this episode of Home Grown, he opens up about the pressure of carrying hometown expectations, balancing academics with football, and the quiet grind that happens long before anyone’s watching. We talk adversity, accountability, and the moments that test whether you really love the work.

This isn’t a highlight reel—it’s the truth behind the helmet.

Follow Amaire's journey on Instagram #amarecaines1

MacKenzie Morrow’s path from Jacksonville High School to the U.S. Naval Academy proves that hometown roots can launch national dreams.

In this episode of Home Grown, the JHS soccer standout reflects on growing up in a community that shaped her work ethic, leadership, and love for the game. MacKenzie shares what it took to balance high-level academics with elite soccer, navigate the recruiting process, and earn the opportunity to compete at one of the most demanding institutions in the country. From early mornings to big moments, her story is about discipline, pride, and carrying Jacksonville with her wherever she goes.

Follow MacKenzie's journey on Instagram @mackkmorrow