TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR WALLIE JONES, HEAD COACH OF THE SUMTER P-15S AMERICAN LEGION BASEBALL TEAM, UPON THE OCCASION OF HIS RETIREMENT AS COACH, TO THANK HIM FOR HIS TWENTY-FIVE YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE TO THE YOUTH OF SOUTH CAROLINA, AND TO WISH HIM MUCH FULFILLMENT AND SUCCESS IN ALL HIS FUTURE ENDEAVORS.
Whereas, the House of Representatives has learned with regret that Wallie Jones, head coach of the Sumter P-15s American Legion baseball team, has decided to step down from his position after a quarter century of outstanding and committed service to the youth of South Carolina; and
Whereas, experienced in bringing out the best in his young players, Wallie Jones led his team to nine state titles and two Southeast Regional crowns during the course of his American Legion baseball coaching career. In 2006 and 2008, he took his program to its first two World Series, finishing fourth in 2006 and third in 2008. He finishes his career with a record of 637-187; and
Whereas, coaching the P-15s has been a family affair for Wallie Jones. His father, the late Bernie Jones, preceded his son as P-15s head coach and served with him as an assistant; and
Whereas, Post 15 athletic director Jimmy Hodge says of Coach Jones, "We're not going to be able to replace Wallie. We are going to be able to find someone to take the job, but I don't think we'll ever be able to find someone who gave of himself like that"; and
Whereas, while he has not decided what he will undertake next, Wallie Jones says he is ready to follow God's leading. The veteran coach emphasizes that being called "coach" was a great honor and responsibility that he took very seriously; and
Whereas, grateful for his consistent excellence and commitment, the House of Representatives takes great pleasure in saluting Coach Jones for his many years of helping to build boys into men through baseball and the example of a fine character worthy of emulation. Now, therefore,
Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:
That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, recognize and honor Wallie Jones, head coach of the Sumter P-15s American Legion baseball team, upon the occasion of his retirement as coach, thank him for his twenty-five years of dedicated service to the youth of South Carolina, and wish him much fulfillment and success in all his future endeavors.
Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be provided to Wallie Jones.