Athletes shine at first-ever JMC Athletic Awards banquet

JACKSON, Tenn. — Winning an award is always a special moment.

Appreciation can change the day and even save a life, that’s why these local students were recognized.

“Tonight we’re honoring our athletes. 66 male and female athletes in high school in all sports and also inducting 2 legacy inductees,” said Ricky Catlett, Deputy Superintendent for JMCSS.

The first Jackson-Madison County Athletic Awards was held at the Carl Perkins Civic Center tonight, April 12.

We spoke to Catlett, the announcer for the event, who says he’s excited to participate in the event.

“We just wanted to let our student athletes and our coaches and teachers, all that pour into our student athletes how much we appreciate them,” said Catlett.

He says this banquet was about the support of the community.

“Some of these kids in here have played their last sporting event or contest so we hope that they keep our core values: judgment, motivation, courage, service and support and carry those with them to their career, their families,” said Catlett.

WBBJ’s very own Sports Director, Zach Jones, had the opportunity to present the Legacy Awards to Dr. Detra Tisdale-Moore and to Mr. Jimmy Carmichael.

Athletes from Jackson Central Merry, South Side, Liberty Technology, Madison Academic and North Side High Schools were honored.

Male and female students were recognized for their efforts in tennis, track and field, volleyball and cheerleading to name a few.

“We’ll be better and better each and every year after we get through so we’re excited about starting this tradition to honor our athletes and to also to induct someone who has been in our programs before,” said Catlett.

A big congratulations to every recipient honored tonight.

Dinner was served by Lane College, and cheerleaders within the school district helped serve the food.

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