ROCKINGHAM COUNTY, N.C. — Trooper Wright, a standout high school football player from Eden, signed a groundbreaking Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) deal with local brand Preppy Pirate Outfitters on Saturday. The signing makes Wright the first high school athlete in Rockingham County to secure such a contract.

The NIL agreement came after Wright’s mother initially reached out about creating a jersey for the football season. Instead, Preppy Pirate owner Chris Nelson proposed an NIL partnership, recognizing Wright’s impact on the community.

“It was 100% deserved, and if anybody deserved an NIL deal in our community at this level to make history, it was Trooper Wright,” Nelson said.

During the signing event, Wright thanked his family, coaches and community for supporting him throughout his

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