A renovated gym was dedicated on Friday, December 16, at Carlisle School. It is now referred to as Coaches Court as a way of honoring those who have given time, energy, and wisdom to Carlisle student-athletes, teaching them about life, the importance of teamwork, discipline, and respect, all the while stressing education.
Carlisle recognizes the importance that coaches can play in the lives of children. They foster positive youth development, form strong bonds, and teach players to honor the game, win or lose.
Carlisle’s first varsity basketball coaches were Tom Webster, who coached the girls, and Tyler Harris who coached the boys beginning in 1970. Basketball was the only sport played in the gym until volleyball was added as a fall sport in 2004.
The school boasts 15 State Championships including six varsity boys under Jeff Adkins, and one championship under Jason Niblett. There have been eight varsity girls’ titles earned, four under the leadership of Tony Jones and four under the coaching of Mancino Craighead.
Head of School, Gracie Agnew expressed gratitude to those donors who made the renovation possible. In less than a month, more than $120,000 was raised — all funds earmarked for floor replacement, new lighting, and painting.
Friday’s ceremony included video clips from former Carlisle student athletes who had played on state championship teams and moved on to play at the collegiate and professional levels.
Thon Maker, who was a tenth-round draft pick chosen to play for the Milwaukee Bucks also played for the Detroit Pistons and the Cleveland Cavaliers as well as the Long Island Nets. Thon thanked Carlisle for the “role it played in his development.” Currently, he is in China with the Fujian Sturgeons.
Kaleb Johnson class of 2015, who played at Georgetown, expressed his gratitude for all that was done for him while a student at Carlisle. He has played for the Austin Spurs G League and Brillantes de Zulia in Venezuela. Yesid Mosquera has played in Cafeteros de Armenia in Colombia, Gaiterosde Zulia in Venezuela Piratas de loslagos in Equador and Team Cali, Colombia. Yesid used the opportunity to encourage students to take advantage of the new facility, to “embrace the community.”
More than 150 attended the dedication ceremony, including Mrs. Elizabeth Walker, one of the original founders and steadfast supporters of the school.
