Long-time Jackson County Basketball Coach Jim Brown will be inducted into the TSSAA Hall of Fame class of 2022.
Brown began coaching the Lady Blue Devils in 1992 accumulating over 600 wins and seven state championships. Brown said the accomplishment ranks on the top of his list over his 30 year career.
“You work and grow up around it and you see people each year that get inducted, coaches and others that have been in education for a long time that you have always kind of looked up to,” Brown said. “So it’s very humbling to be a part of that group.”
Brown said when he first got the call, he thought of all the people that helped him along the way. Brown compared his career to the phrase, “It takes a village to raise a child.” Brown said so many people from his family, the school system and players made it possible.
“Jackson County is just such a special place,” Brown said. “The community has always given me great support. The school system has always been awesome, but outside of the school system as well. It is pretty special to me.”
Brown continues to coach the Lady Blue Devils and serves as the school’s Athletic Director. Brown said each season represents a puzzle to him. Brown said every year he works to place the players in the right place to create the best team.
“I hope when they leave that they enjoyed playing,” Brown said. “It’s been worth all the time and effort that they have put into it, and I hope that they understand whatever you do, do it to the best of your ability.”
Brown will continue to work with the youth of Jackson County as his career moves forward. He has already made a difference with 25 players continuing play at the collegiate level.
Brown will be inducted into the Hall of Fame on April 2nd.