Laderique McNeill of Harnett Central has signed to run cross country and track at N.C. State.

McNeill was third in the North Carolina High School Athletic Association 3-A cross country meet at the Ivey Redmon Athletic Complex in Kernersville on Nov. 4.

McNeill, whose running skills were first identified in a physical education class, ran a time of 15 minutes, 29.34 seconds for the five-kilometer course.

McNeill overcame a medically-induced coma after involvement in an automobile accident last year that required him to relearn basic skills.

Photo subjects give the sign of the wolf at a signing ceremony for Harnett Central star runner Laderique McNeill, who will be joining the N.C. State cross country and track programs. The signee was wearing a red bowtie as he was seated between his stepfather, Paul McLeod, and grandmother, Dollie McLeod. His sister, Kirstie McLeod, is seated at right. Standing from left are Central cross county coach Carter Benge, athletic director Will Gage and track coach Kevin Spears. (Photo/Instagram)