Bardstown High's Remarkable 1970-71 Athletic Triumphs

About the Guest(s):

Jolee Phillips and Jerry Willett were standout athletes during the 1970-71 school year at Bardstown High in Kentucky. Jolee Phillips excelled in football, basketball, and track, contributing significantly to the school's historic achievements in winning state championships and competing in the boys' Sweet 16 basketball tournament. He later went on to play college football at the University of Louisville. Jerry Willett was also an integral part of the sports teams, playing a crucial role despite facing personal challenges, like an injury during the football championship.

Episode Summary:

This episode of Kentucky Sports Memories with Gary Fogle transports us to the remarkable 1970-71 school year at Bardstown High School, which became known as the "Year of the Tiger" due to its unprecedented athletic achievements. During this period, Bardstown won the state football championship and the boys' track state title and also made it to the boys' basketball Sweet 16. This extraordinary year encapsulates the spirit and potential of high school sports and the determination of young athletes.

Gary delves into the experiences of Jolee Phillips and Jerry Willett, who were significant contributors to Bardstown's success. Phillips, emphasizing fun and camaraderie, recounts his journey from doubting his athleticism to becoming a star capable of competing at a higher level. Willett, on the other hand, reflects on the importance of team success, recalling how his injury did not dampen the celebratory spirit of his teammates. Through their stories, we are given a glimpse of the teamwork, resilience, and community values that defined Bardstown High's outstanding performances.

Key Takeaways:

• Bardstown High School's 1970-71 school year is celebrated as the "Year of the Tiger" due to its exceptional achievements in football, basketball, and track.

• Jolee Phillips was a key athlete, playing a significant role across multiple undefeated teams and later pursuing college football at Louisville.

• Jerry Willett contributed to the team morale and maintained a positive outlook despite his injury during the football championship game.

• The episode explores the concept of sports being about having fun and building lifelong memories and friendships.

• Coach Garness Martin had a significant influence on the athletes, encouraging multi-sport participation that led to state level success.

Notable Quotes:

• "I mean, honestly, I didn't realize the accomplishment and what the significance of that might be." - Jolee Phillips

• "As far as the significance of winning that year the way we did, no, I didn't appreciate it until you look back on it." - Jolee Phillips

• "I got up, took my uniform out, told him I was through." - Jolee Phillips, on almost quitting football

• "The team again... gave me a game, football." - Jerry Willett

• "Coach got what he wanted, he tell you gonna run track, you gonna run track." - Jolee Phillips

Resources:

• Bardstown High School relevant historical archives on state championships.

• University of Louisville Athletics: Website (not directly mentioned but relevant to Jolee Phillips' post-high school career).

• Kentucky sports history references for Sweet 16 and state-level athletic achievements.

Join Gary Fogle as he continues to explore the stories behind the events and figures that have left a lasting mark on the world of sports in Kentucky. Tune in to hear more about how this extraordinary year at Bardstown High that shaped the lives of its students and left an indelible mark on Kentucky sports history and stay tuned for more captivating episodes of Kentucky Sports Memories.