Eighty-five Oxford High School students were honored June 3 at the 2003-04 Senior Athletes Dinner held at the Boulder Pointe Conference Center and sponsored by the Oxford Wildcat Booster Club.
‘For the past 30 years the seniors of Oxford High School have been recognized for their efforts participating in sports while continuing to achieve academic excellence,? said Booster Club President Chuck Gall. ‘This year we have 85 so-deserving seniors. It’s an honor for me as president of the Booster Club to congratulate each one of them on your achievements and your accomplishments. The Booster Club has been part of Oxford’s sports tradition for many years by supporting you in any way we can. This awards ceremony tonight is one way to thank each one of you by letting family, friends and Oxford residents share your experience and accomplishments while participating in sports.?
In order to be honored by the Booster Club, a high school athlete must receive a varsity letter in at least one sport during their senior year.
During their four-year high school careers, the 48 male and 36 female senior athletes of the Class of 2004 earned a total of 340 varsity letters, the highest number in the program’s history.
‘Everyone one of you has displayed this trait ? that success does take hard work and determination, which is evident from your many accomplishments,? Gall said. ‘Everyone of you have displayed and worn the Oxford blue and gold with pride, shown outstanding sportsmanship and fulfilled many goals.?
Of the 84 senior athletes recognized, two were singled out by a vote of their peers for special awards.
Shannon Gerbe won the ‘Helen Smith Award,? which is given to the ‘best female athlete.? During her high school career, Gerbe earned nine varsity letters in basketball, volleyball, soccer and softball.
David Reile won the ‘George Prince Award,? which is given to the ‘best male athlete.? During his high school career, Reile earned nine varsity letters in football, basketball and baseball.
OHS Senior Adam Millard was honored with the ‘Spirit Award,? which is given to a senior who has demonstrated the most school spirit, but did not play a sport their last year. The winner is selected by a vote of the senior athletes.
Gall reminded the senior athletes of the important role their coaches played in their lives, both on and off the field.
‘Your coaches have been a big part of your lives over the last four years. The wins, the losses, the ties, your coaches stood tall behind all of you,? Gall said. ‘Never giving up hope and always wanting the best for you. Never forget the hours they worked with you or the valuable lessons they taught you.
‘You’re high school career is coming to an end, but many new, exciting challenges await you. Some of you will continue to play sports in college or on recreational leagues. Others may use their talents to become coaches. Whatever road you choose to take, we know you will always treasure your high school sport memories and will continue to follow in the Oxford tradition.?
Toward the end of the ceremony, Gall presented Helen Smith ? lifetime Booster member, 1952 OHS graduate and all-around great lady ? with a bouquet of roses in honor of all the hard work and tireless effort she contributes year in and year out organizing the Senior Athletes Dinner.
‘Nobody knows the amount of hours that Helen puts in doing this. It’s endless ? the programs, the plaques. . .She does a great job and you know it’s all for the kids,? Gall said.