Crowley ISD Connections Magazine Spring 2017 | Page 22

Leaving a Legacy

CHS baseball program and alumni honor longtime coach with field dedication Written by Jaime Handy
Alumni events are great for former students to connect , introduce their families and catch up by sharing old stories and memories of the past . To continue the celebration of Crowley High School ’ s 50th anniversary , the baseball program started its annual alumni game with a special twist by honoring longtime head coach and teacher Mark Jones with a field dedication ceremony .
With more than 100 former players , teachers , administrators , family and friends in attendance , the team gathered to unveil a sign on the back of the press box to name the facility Mark Jones Field . Former players and coaches took turns speaking to the crowd about the legacy Coach Jones carved out during his time at CHS .
“ I ’ m pretty much in awe that this happened and to look up and see my name up there ,” Jones said . “ It ’ s so overwhelming to hear the words that people have to say about you . I ’ m just so grateful to have been able to be here and work with these players and coaches . It ’ s been a great part of my whole family ’ s life .”
Coach Jones led the baseball program and taught students at CHS from 1981-2010 . He built a well-respected baseball program that advanced to the state tournament in 1991 and amassed 18 bi-district titles .
To kick off the 50th anniversary , CHS recognized former football player Gary Reasons by naming the football field at Eagle Stadium in his honor this fall .
22 CROWLEY ISD CONNECTIONS | Spring 2017