The Vicksburg Warren School District (VWSD) has initiated a program to honor past athletes, coaches, and administrators for their remarkable contributions to the athletic departments of Vicksburg High School and Warren Central High School. This prestigious recognition aims to celebrate individuals who have showcased excellence in sportsmanship and brought pride to the district. The nomination process is open to the public and selection committee members, with eligibility criteria varying based on the category of nominee.
Eligibility requirements are categorized into three groups: athletes, coaches, and administrators. Athletes must have competed for at least two years beginning in 1970 or later and graduated at least 15 years prior to nomination. Coaches require a minimum of five years coaching experience and ten years within their sport, retiring from coaching at least five years before eligibility. Administrators need to have left their role for at least five years and significantly impacted VWSD athletics. The selection committee, consisting of up to 12 members, requires a two-thirds majority vote for induction, conducted through secret ballot. Induction ceremonies will occur on September 18, followed by an award presentation during a football game halftime on September 19.
Criteria for Nomination and Selection Process
The nomination process involves stringent guidelines tailored to each category—athletes, coaches, and administrators—ensuring that only those who have made significant impacts are considered. Each group has specific prerequisites, including participation duration, graduation timelines, and retirement periods. Exceptions can be made at the discretion of the Hall of Fame committee, allowing flexibility while maintaining high standards.
Athletes are eligible if they participated in sports for a minimum of two years starting from 1970 and belong to a graduating class at least 15 years prior to nomination. Coaches must have accumulated at least five years of coaching experience and a total of ten years in their respective sport, retiring at least five years before becoming eligible. Administrators must have been out of their roles for at least five years and demonstrated a profound influence on VWSD athletics. These criteria ensure that nominees possess a legacy worthy of celebration. Furthermore, the selection committee consists of no more than 12 members, requiring a two-thirds majority for election via secret ballot. A quorum of five members is necessary to convene meetings, with at least six present for voting purposes. New committee members are elected by majority vote among remaining members, ensuring a balanced and fair decision-making process.
Honoring Excellence Through Induction Ceremonies
The culmination of this initiative lies in the induction ceremonies scheduled for September 18, where honorees will receive awards acknowledging their achievements. Following this event, honorees will be introduced during halftime of the annual varsity football game between Vicksburg High School and Warren Central High School on September 19. This tradition not only celebrates individual accomplishments but also strengthens community ties by showcasing the district's rich athletic heritage.
These ceremonies serve as a testament to the dedication and hard work exhibited by the inductees throughout their careers. On September 18, selected individuals will gather to accept accolades recognizing their contributions to VWSD athletics. Subsequently, on September 19, during halftime of the highly anticipated football game, these honorees will be formally introduced to the audience, fostering a sense of pride and unity among students, alumni, and community members. By intertwining historical achievements with current events, the district aims to inspire future generations to strive for excellence both on and off the field. For further details or to submit nominations, interested parties should reach out to the VWSD Athletics Department, reinforcing the importance of community involvement in preserving and celebrating the district’s athletic legacy.