The 2023 Jackson Parish Sports Hall of Fame Induction Banquet is scheduled to take place on Saturday, October 7, 2023 in the Family Life Center of the First Baptist Church in Jonesboro. The event will begin at 5:00 pm for the social time with the program starting at 6:00 pm.
Representing the Class of 2023 is Jonesboro-Hodge High School athletes Michael Malone, Marvin Thomas, Harmon Ayres and Charles Andrews, Corey Bond of Weston and Casey Jackson from Chatham High School.
Also being recognized for Outstanding Achievement and Meritorious Service is Roy “Fuzz” Barlow and Bill Staples. Both spent the majority of the past forty years being a part of the Jonesboro-Hodge High School athletic program although in diametrically different capacities.
Barlow was a hands on instructor while Staples used his unique communication skills to get his message across. Barlow did most of his work in the hot and sweaty dens of football stadiums and on running tracks where spent countless hours teaching, motivating and molding young athletes into champions.
Staples sat high above the action in the pressbox or courtside on press row. For decades as the “Voice of the Tigers” or while announcing games for other local schools he masterfully conveyed what was taking place so well that the people who were listening could visualize the action.
While their contributions were diverse, their dedication to their craft and the athletic programs in Jackson Parish are the same. What they did, they did out of love for the schools and the athletes, coaches, and administrators associated. They certainly didn’t do it for financial gain or for any fan fare or recognition.
Barlow and Staples preferred to do their work behind the scenes, caring not for attention or praise. They are both going to get plenty of both this Saturday evening and it is well deserved.
A well deserved honor for these men. So glad I had the opportunity to work with and know these good men. Jackson Parish is better off because of these tireless workers.