The Cleeks are out - what’s the Hunt without them?
KINGSPORT, TN — Kingsport’s beloved Funfest Week returns this Saturday, July 19th, bringing with it one of the community’s most anticipated traditions: the annual Medallion Hunt. But for longtime competitors The Hardclore Gang, this year marks a pivotal moment—the first time they’ll be competing without a major part of their core lineup since the crew formed over a decade ago.
The Hardclore Gang, a storied team made up of the Cleek and Moore families, has become the game’s most recognizable team, with their youthful flow, Veteran presence, and absolute domination year in and year out. So much so that the teams have received hate from other teams. That’s not where the Cleeks will be missed though, for that part is solely covered by Meghan Moore.
When asked about the inevitable criticism heading into this year’s season — the backhanded comments, the sideline whispers, the not-so-subtle jabs online — she didn’t respond with fire. She responded with wisdom.
“I’m only brave when I have to be. Being brave doesn’t mean you go looking for trouble.”
A quote straight from The Lion King’s Mufasa, and spoken with the calm strength of someone who knows exactly who she is. No panic, no posturing — just presence.
In other words? If they go out of their way to look for something, she’ll be right there, ready to give them the satisfaction they’re so desperately seeking. Although situations
the Key Losses from the Cleek Side!
On paper, it’s a blow that can’t be overstated. The absence of Samuel and Stacey Cleek, both former College athletes, removes a key athletic edge. Add to that the loss of Matthew Cleek, the team’s strategic mind, rumored to be so productive that Jeff Bezos gained $70 billion just by being a part of Amazon.
Not to mention, the team loses two key morale boosters and seekers in Alexa and Savanna Cleek, whose “big vibes and even bigger eyes” have helped on more than one crucial clue day.
And in a hit to future development, the absence of rising young talents Penelope and Lovelyn could slow the long-term growth of the Hardclore academy pipeline. This team wasn't always on the mountaintop—it took time to build their rep. Losing that future promise could hurt.\
Can the rest of the gang Step Into the Spotlight?
With the Cleek family sidelined, the Hardclore Gang will lean heavily on the Moore family and close family friends to get the job done.
Marty Moore – The undisputed team captain and field general. Known for staying calm under pressure and making high-IQ plays when the clues get tight.
Sha Moore – The team’s statistical standout, leading in MF/M (Medallion Finds per minute). As she is the teams hottest finder with
Meghan Moore – A vocal veteran who brings fire to the team’s social presence. Known as much for her sharp instincts during clue interpretation as for clapping back at doubters online, Meghan isn’t afraid to let her presence be known—on the field or in the comments section.
Matthew Moore – Another experienced hand who doesn’t always fill up the stat sheet, but contributes heavily in strategy, logistics, and leading recon runs on tight clues. A true glue guy.
Gavin Ledford - Enters his rookie season with high expectations and massive vibes. With two former college athletes gone, Ledford seems to be the replacement athletically heading into the season.
Sato - finds himself once again in familiar territory — listed as Questionable. After being placed on the Injured Reserve early this summer due to undisclosed midsection issues, many wondered if this would be the year he stepped back.
Despite the setback, sources close to the situation suggest Sato is gearing up for a return, motivated more than ever by the sting of the past two seasons. A knee injury in late 2023, followed by a crushing final-day misfire alongside Matthew in 2024, has haunted the margins of his competitive mindset.
But this year feels different.
“We were inches away,” Sato said.
“But as an old rural saying goes: ‘If hard work led to success, the donkey would own the farm.’ Last year showed me how close I really am. This year, I’m locked in.”
Fans can look forward to reading more about that near-miss heartbreak in an upcoming post titled:
The Missed Medallion: Inches from Glory.
injury Report heading into 2025 for the HardClore Gang
Sha Moore: 7/19 - Work
Matthew Moore: Wednesday through Friday due to starting a new job
Cleek family: vacationing in the Caribbean
Sato: Monday for scheduled checkup on offseason issues
Gavin Ledford: Monday through Thursday because of work.
Meghan Moore: TBD
xXX
