Next Graham Sports Hall of Fame induction should feature stories that flow seamlessly

The Graham Sports Hall of Fame is gearing up for a night of celebration and nostalgia as they prepare to induct a new class of accomplished athletes and coaches. Among the inductees is the 1998 boys’ golf team, whose members have already begun reminiscing about their time on the course.

Nolan Myrick, a member of the team, reached out to his former teammates to share stories ahead of the induction banquet on Saturday night. The team, coached by the late Gary Moser, had a unique practice routine that included making 10 consecutive 4-foot putts before moving on to the next phase.

The team’s top golfer, Shaun Griffith, went on to play on amateur tours, while Wayne Jordan and Joey Hall were also key members of the successful squad. The team’s camaraderie and dedication paid off as they were crowned conference and regional champions before finishing as Class 1-A state runners-up.

Another standout inductee is Nikki Wilborn, who was a key player in Graham’s girls’ basketball success under coach Kyle Ward. Wilborn’s hard work and dedication on the court led the Red Devils to three straight appearances in the state finals.

Also being honored is Burton Cates, a longtime championship football coach at Eastern Randolph, who has amassed over 360 career coaching victories. Cates, a Graham native, credits his success to the support of those around him and his deep roots in the community.

In addition to the athletes being inducted, Buster Goodman and the late Jimmy Perry will be honored in the Hall of Honor for their contributions to Graham-area athletics. Goodman, a 1970 Graham graduate, has been a dedicated supporter of the school’s sports programs, while Perry was a respected game official and booking agent for youth sports.

The induction ceremony promises to be a night filled with stories of triumph, camaraderie, and the enduring spirit of sportsmanship that has defined the Graham Sports Hall of Fame.