By Janice Largen
Patrick County High School hosted its first ever “Fall Athletic Awards Ceremony” Friday night, November 17, in the high school auditorium. After nearly 40 years of holding an annual Athletic Banquet in which all athletes were recognized, PCHS has changed the format of this honorary ceremony.
Athletic Director Terry Harris explained, “Our hope is that by separating the awards ceremonies into three seasons that coordinate with the actual sports seasons, we can accomplish the same goal in a shorter, more convenient time span. We have listened to comments and suggestions from parents and coaches, and we hope that this format that we are trying out tonight works better for everyone.”
In the past, honoring all athletes in one ceremony lasted up to three hours. As a result, some parents and athletes were forced to leave before the end of the ceremony due to prior obligations. Friday night’s ceremony was finished in about 50 minutes from start to finish.
Harris further explained that some awards—like the Coach of the Year and Athlete of the Year—would wait until the end of the year.
Frankie Bryant, Athletic Booster Club president, opened the ceremony with a heartfelt thank you to all parents and athletes for another successful season of athletics for the school. He commented on the success of the annual fund-raiser and explained that a portion of that money had already been earmarked for the upcoming season.
After an invocation from volleyball player, Morgan Biggs, Harris introduced head football coach, David Morrison who made the awards presentations:
