Willie Jeffries Character Award recipient recognized

The Willie Jeffries Character Award recognizes the outstanding high school football athlete from our area who demonstrates outstanding performance and character on and off the field. This award is given by Orangeburg County Community of Character in support of their mission to inspire, motivate, and recognize excellent character in Orangeburg County.

Established in 2019, this award is named in recognition and honor of Hall of Fame Coach Willie Jeffries for his major contributions to the community, the athletic world at large, and his belief in and support of our organization. Jeffries’ life achievements “on and off” the field, his un-wavering commitment to service and his dedication to improving the lives of others demonstrates high standards in action and promotes character achievement.

During the presentation, Candace Berry-Vaughn, Executive Director of Orangeburg County Community of Character, acknowledged the organization’s twenty-three years of implementing programs and initiatives that promote character excellence. The Willie Jeffries Character Award recognizes student-athletes who meet the criteria and demonstrates the character envisioned when the award was established.

Such criteria include an Orangeburg County football player that excels in athletic performance; a student athlete that demonstrates excellence in sportsmanship, respect, with outstanding character on and off the field; one who demonstrates a strong commitment to community and others. Khasean was nominated by his Coach, Natrone Davis. “Khasean is an exemplary student who has consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic both on and off the field.”

Respect, perseverance, humility, and trustworthiness were some of the traits identified as his key character strengths. Khasean is a senior at Branchville High and is a member of The National Honor Society with a GPA of 4.12. He is member of National Honor Society and The Beta Club, where he serves as the Vice President, and is currently taking honors and Dual Enrollment courses.

On the field, Saldano has been an integral member, leading his team on the offensive and defensive line playing nose guard and center. His athletic performance includes being named to the South Carolina Academic All-American team; named All Region; and 7-A Offensive Lineman of the year.

He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Corey and Balicia Haigler. Khasean Saldano was in attendance with his coaches and parents and humbly accepted the recognition from Coach Willie Jeffries.