Berkley Freshman Carries Father’s Football Legacy at Somerset Berkley High School

Berkley’s Camden Neveux is starting his freshman year at Somerset Berkley Regional High School with a number on his back that means more than most.

When the 14-year-old football player was given the chance to pick his jersey, he surprised his father Peter by choosing No. 51– the same number Peter proudly wore as a Case High School football player in the late '90s.

A Rivalry Turned to Pride

For Peter, the sentimental moment carried extra weight.

Back in 1999, he was grinding it out as a guard and occasional linebacker for Case High in Swansea, Somerset Berkley’s longtime Thanksgiving Day rival. When Camden came home holding his new uniform, Peter couldn’t help but smile.

“He got to pick my old high school number,” Peter said. “We may have been fierce rivals in the past, but I’m cheering for Somerset Berkley the next four years.”

Following in Dad’s Footsteps

Peter still remembers the long practices, double sessions, and the camaraderie of high school football. He thought those days were behind him, until his son showed an interest in the game.

Unlike his dad, who played Pop Warner for years before high school, Camden only recently found a passion for football. This season is his very first, but fate lined things up: not only did he land his dad’s old number, but he’s also been practicing in a familiar position.

“Right now, they’ve got him at guard,” Peter said. “That’s the same spot I played, so it’s really come full circle.”

A Bond Beyond the Game

For father and son, the number is more than just a patch of fabric. It’s a bridge between generations, a chance to share a bond that goes deeper than wins and losses.

“He came home and showed me, and I held the jersey up proud,” Peter said. “Any kid wants to make their parents proud, but I think this was extra special because he knew what it meant to me.”

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The two have already spent time together going over tips and drills, reliving Peter’s “glory days” while creating new ones for Camden.

Looking Ahead

Camden’s first game is set for this Saturday, September 6 at 10 a.m. at Somerset Berkley, where the Raiders will host Hanover High. Whether it’s the start of a long football career or just four years of high school fun, Camden has already created a memory his dad won’t forget.

“At the end of the day, it’s about supporting them in whatever they want to do,” Peter said. “But when they want to follow in your footsteps, that’s even more special.”

Best of luck this weekend, Camden. Way to make your dad proud!