Albemarle, a small town in the central part of North Carolina, gained national attention between 1999 and 2001, thanks to the incredible talents of a high school football player named Tristan Akeem T.A. McLendon. McLendon’s prodigious statistics dominated the field, with records that still stand today, 22 years after his last game as a Bulldog.
McLendon’s journey into sports began at a young age, influenced by his family and a natural affinity for athletic endeavors. He enjoyed a variety of sports, including swimming, basketball, football, and baseball. However, football captured his primary interest, particularly after watching the great running backs of his time on television. His passion for the game was further nurtured by his coach at Albemarle Middle School, Mike Turner, who provided a pivotal jump start to his football career.
At the high school level, McLendon encountered major lessons under the guidance of coach Jack Gaster. Gaster instilled in his players a love for the game and a relentless work ethic, teaching them never to let up and to never underestimate their opponents. McLendon’s extraordinary statistics caught the attention of college coaches nationwide.
When it came time to make a decision about his football career, McLendon chose to stay close to home and play at North Carolina State University (NCSU) for coach Chuck Amato. McLendon’s freshman year proved to be his standout season at NCSU, rushing for 1,101 yards and 18 touchdowns, earning him the 2002 ACC Rookie of the Year award. Despite being a significant contributor to the Wolfpack for the following two seasons, injuries took a toll on McLendon, with many of them stemming from the grueling freshman year.
Following his junior season, McLendon entered the NFL draft but was not selected. Despite the disappointment, he remains content with his career and the legacy he has left behind. McLendon emphasizes that not playing professional football does not define him, as he recognizes that football provided him with invaluable tools for life. He credits the sport for teaching him resilience and the ability to bounce back from setbacks.
Reflecting on the changes in the sport since his playing days, McLendon observes a shift in today’s athletes, noting that many of them are coddled and handed opportunities rather than having to work and earn them. He also acknowledges a decrease in enthusiasm for the sport in his hometown, hoping that the passion for football will be reignited in the future.
On July 17, McLendon will be inducted into the Stanly County Sports Hall of Fame, alongside four other individuals. The induction ceremony will take place at Pfeiffer University. Tickets to the event are available for purchase in advance for $35, with the price increasing to $50 on the day of the ceremony. Tickets can be obtained from various locations in Albemarle, including City Hall, Albemarle Parks and Recreation, Starnes-Bramlett Jewelers, Uwharrie Dash, Locust City Hall, and Oakboro Town Hall.
Tristan Akeem T.A. McLendon’s incredible achievements in high school football continue to be celebrated, cementing his place in the history of North Carolina athletics. His legacy serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, reminding them that football is not just about the game itself but also about the lessons it imparts and the personal growth it fosters.
