Explore Through The Years
"Through the Years" delves into the history of Black athletes at D.W. Daniel High School, where integration began in 1964, but Black students were not formally acknowledged until 1967. Despite facing ongoing obstacles, these students navigated their education and found strength in athletics as a means of escape and resilience. The timeline spans 50 years, from 1964 to 2014, interweaving local achievements with national historic events. It honors the trail-blazers who broke barriers, overcame challenges, and set the stage for future generations. Experience the powerful stories that shaped the legacy of Black athleticism at Daniel HS and continue to inspire.
Featured Stories
Jae’lon Oglesby represents a legacy of athleticism, perseverance, and history deeply rooted in the Clemson and Central South Carolina communities. The son of 1995 state football champion Anthony White and grandson of Ann LaVerne Williams-White—one of the first four Black women to attend Clemson University and a beloved guidance counselor at D.W. Daniel High School for over 30 years—Jae’lon comes from a lineage of trailblazers and achievers.
As the oldest of three siblings, Jae’lon is part of a family steeped in athletic excellence. Not only has he set a high standard with his accomplishments, but his younger siblings have also carried the family’s athletic tradition as standout athletes at D.W. Daniel High School. Their mother, a remarkable athlete herself, further adds to the family’s storied sports history, making the Oglesby name synonymous with excellence on and off the field.
At D.W. Daniel High School, Jae’lon was a multi-sport athlete, excelling in football, basketball, and track. On the football field, he rushed for over 4,500 yards as an all-purpose back, earning recognition as the nation’s No. 1 all-purpose back by Rivals.com. His leadership helped the Lions reach their first state championship game in 15 years, while his accolades include being a two-time Anderson Independent Mail Player of the Year, a three-time all-state selection, and a 2013 South Carolina Mr. Football finalist.
After high school, Jae’lon attended Fork Union Military Academy and later joined the University of Memphis. He played nine games in his first-year student season, contributing 814 all-purpose yards as a wide receiver and kick return specialist. His 25 kick returns for 588 yards placed him among Memphis’ all-time leaders for single-season kick-return average.
Jae’lon is also part of the extended Oglesby family and is well-known for producing standout athletes at D.W. Daniel High School. As one of the few Black athletes with multi-generational ties to the Clemson/Central area, Jae’lon’s legacy reflects his achievements and the strength of his family’s impact on their community.
His cousin, Jaquial Durham, recalls Jae’lon’s selflessness and joy on the field, qualities that made playing alongside him a memorable experience. Jae’lon’s journey, supported by his family’s remarkable athletic and academic accomplishments, is a testament to perseverance, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
