The tribute is fitting for a man whose coaching career has been marked by dignity and success since he came to Harlan in 1956 to teach at Rosenwald High School.
Gray taught his players in the days before integration to overcome racism by demanding they be that much better than their opponents, forcing them to overcome prejudice instead of using it as an excuse or reason for failure.
When Rosenwald closed in 1963, Gray made the transition to Harlan High School where he became known as one of the state's top track coaches. He also experienced championships on the basketball court, reaching the state tournament twice in the 1990s with the Harlan Lady Dragons.
Gray, now an assistant for the Harlan boys team, will be honored before the final game of the evening when the Green Dragons play Newport, whose coaching staff includes Gray's son, Junior, a former Harlan guard who is now an attorney in Cincinnati.
Harlan sports fans should make their way to the HHS gymnasium tonight to help thank and honor a true living legend.
Post a Comment
