Welcome to our newest inductees in the Class of 2024
THE HARDIN COUNTY SPORTS HALL OF FAME
Michael Blount - Class of 2024
In his senior year of 1994, Michael Blount was as anchor on the mound and in the outfield for a Tiger team that was ranked #1 in the state for most of the season. As an All-District and All-State pitcher, he also hit nearly .500 from the leadoff spot. He received a scholarship to UT Martin where he was their first pitcher to be named to the All- OVC first team in his sophomore season after posting a 1.94 ERA. He led UTM in wins each of his final three seasons, tossing three shoutouts and finishing his career as the team's all-time leader in games started and innings pitched, second in strikeouts and complete games, and fourth in wins. In 2003 he was named to the OVC 75th Anniversary Team.
Sherri Blount - Class of 2024
In the mid-late 1970s, few Lady Tigers made an impression that could rival that of Sherri Blount. Excelling as an All-District & All-Region point guard for Central High, she then went on to to play at the University of North Alabama. At the conclusion of her UNA basketball career she ranked first in career assists and second in career steals while also excelling on the softball diamond, being named to Gulf South All-Tournament Team. Upon graduating she entered the coaching field, and was assistant coach for the women's basketball team at the University of Alabama for 14 seasons. In 1994 she helped helped lead 'Barna to their first NCAA Final Four. She was inducted into the UNA Hall of Fame in 2006.
Bob Ingle - Class of 2024
As head coach at Pickwick Southside High School during late 1960s and 1970s, Bob Ingle established himself as a hoops legend. He famously led the Eagles on a storybook run to the state tournament in 1976. In addition to a sub-state title, he also led Southside to two district championships as well as two regional championships. Before his coaching career he was a scholarship player at Centenary College and then East Texas Baptist University, where he was recognized as the team MVP and second team NAIA All-American. In 1992 he was inducted into ETBU Hall of Fame. He also coached locally at Michie, Middleton and McNairy Central High Schools before passing away unexpectedly at the age of 42.
OUR PROCESS
Each year, members of the public are encouraged to nominate athletes, coaches, and athletic contributors from the greater Hardin County community whose accomplishments place them at the pinnacle of achievement among their peers. In the spring, our board of directors carefully examines each nomination and creates a ballot of worthy candidates. Along with the board members, each living inductee casts their vote to elect three members to the newest class. Later that year, those newly elected members are inducted at our annual banquet.