Interview Conducted-Week of October 11, 2024
Shaping Clay into Marble
Communication. Consistency. Discipline. The three major themes behind one of Lincoln’s shining beacons. At the age of 80, this former military man from the south transports the young to old from the 2020’s to the 1970’s. Coach Jones placed his athletes on equal footing to him and everyone else. The Lincoln track team, all up and over to the field hearing the word of a man who saw them equally and led with an open heart.
As he told of the happenstance of landing the coaching track and field experience, his lasting images of his former athletes and them changing stirred him up. He mentioned during Homecoming Week and at Honoring the Legends, how showing the familiar faces of his former athletes filled him with such joy. However, he pointed out that many of them had let themselves go. Even bringing up the scenario of feeling that he wronged his athletes by seemingly ruining their night by stumbling upon the posse drinking.
He wanted to actively avoid them as to no sour their evening or to change that core memory of they were, as for memories and reminiscing, Coach Jones gave his insight to a communication problem we all have. Binging recluses from others, our community. Walking the campus, seeing students and staff go A to B while distracted or disengaged from those around them. Back in the golden years of 1970’s Lincoln, everyone knew everyone. People spoke to each other, familiar or stranger alike. Communication and the like, give a sturdy foundation for the tales that someone such as Coach Jones can spin.
Hearing him speak at Honoring the Legends, drove many to their deepest, most heartfelt emotions. Coach Jones received a commemorative bomber jacket from a former athlete of his with many names. He stood next to all seventeen achievements him and the track team earned. Through blood, sweat and more sweat, Coach Jones’ legacy was cemented with the unveiling of the track field ‘s new name.
A new plaque will be placed commemorating his life at Lincoln from 1972 to 2016. Forever securing his marking Lincoln University’s history, through all the ups and downs. He gave a speech congratulating his athletes for their time, effects and stories from years past. Thanking his family, God and Lincoln for all they’ve done for him.
Thank you, Coach Jones. May your legacy shine out from within this campus.
