SPRINGFIELD – This week, Springfield is hosting the MSHSAA State Final Four as well as the Home School Championships. Prior to those tournaments tipping, the city championships were decided for the SPS Middle Schools.
And for Cherokee Middle School, a man in a familiar blazer was hoping to claim one more title.
“It’s nothing different from what we’ve done day in and day out,” Cherokee head coach Gary Gray told his team prior to the game.
Day in and day out, for 30-years, Gray has put on the maroon jacket for Cherokee.
“It’s given me inspiration, it’s given me hope… man, just a lot.”
A lot of games over three decades. All at one school. Leaving many to ask, is he blessed or crazy.
“Is that not history,” former Cherokee parent, Debra James said. “A strong basketball history at Cherokee.”
“It’s a blessing,” Gray answered.
Years ago, Gray entertained the thought of coaching in high school for his old coach, Bill Hogue.
But the mentor gave a compliment asking him to stay.
“Middle school is where you need to be,” Gray recalled.
It was his education of fundamentals and discipline the Kickapoo High School staff enjoyed seeing Gray pass along. A solid foundation for great Chief teams to come.
And so, generations can’t remember a time Cherokee didn’t have coach Gray. That’s what made Wednesday, so bittersweet.
The city championship game – Gray’s last as head coach.
“It’ll be missed, but it’s time.”
“It’s been a wonderful journey, and would not trade it for any other job.”
In the stands Wednesday, along with Gray’s parents who’ve only missed a handful of his games, many former players. Jared and Matt Ridder, now at Missouri State and Southwest Baptist, cherished their 7th grade team with Gray.
“He pushed me in practice, made me a better player” Jared said.
“He loves working with kids and seeing them grow,” Matt added.
Wednesday’s title game didn’t want to see Gray go. It went to double overtime – where Cherokee fell to Reed Middle School.
Not the storybook ending.
But it’s relationships, not wins, that define Gary Gray.
“Roughly how many wins?” Chad Plein asked.
“It’s not about the wins,” Gray answered, “it’s all about the kids.”
