Kentawn Balmer remembers.
He remembers a basketball court where he and the Weldon Chargers stormed Northampton West in 2002 and he remembers a football field where he returned a fumble 60 yards against Northampton East.
Mostly, he remembers a school that helped him become what he is today, a young player in the NFL.
From Carolina to the 49ers, all Balmer's jerseys are repesented.
Friday, the school honored him, retiring his number 90 football jersey, a jersey he wore to accomplish feats on the football field that got him to the University of North Carolina.
As he waited for the retirement ceremony at halftime of the Northampton West basketball game, Balmer was greeted by friend after friend.
“It feels good to be home,” he said. “It’s good to be around people who care about you and love you.”
Being home, the Seattle Seahawks defensive end said, “Is really just a time to chill, just to kick it and be on easy street.”
Balmer said he was honored to have his high school jersey retired. “I’m humbled by it. I think of all the great guys that came before me and I’m the one they chose. I’m honored.”
After being shuffled to Seattle from San Francisco, Balmer believes he has found the right football home for himself with a well regarded coach, Pete Carroll, who is like family. “He always says all you’ve got is today so be the best you can be.”
As the NFL Payers Association continues its contract talks for the upcoming season, the only thing Balmer knows is he wants to play. “We’re just a pawn on the chessboard,” he said of the players. “I’m hopeful they can come to an agreement. There’s no doubt about it (he wants to play) but it’s a business.”
Balmer said he would like to help Weldon with a better football field and training facilities. “I would love to come here and train with the kids and have some good turf on that field but I know that stuff gets political.”
It is a school system he loves. “It’s definitely changed for the better. This school system is set up to support the kids.”
Mayor Julia Meacham presents Balmer a gift.
As the ceremony began, Elie Bracy, superintendent of the school system, told the audience, “This is something that doesn’t happen too often when you honor one of your own.”
Weldon High School Principal Lucy Edwards was not at the school when Balmer played but was at a rival school in Northampton County. “I remember getting jealous when you showed off your skills. We’re extremely proud of you.”
Balmer thanked God and the Weldon school system. “Without your support, I wouldn’t be where I am.”
While she didn’t present Balmer with the keys to the town, Mayor Julia Meacham did present him a letter opener with the town seal. “Thank you for being a great role model for all the children,” she said. “Thank you for being what you are.”
