Morris Public Schools are gearing up for a thrilling sports season, and Athletic Director Jimmy Whitlock shared updates on the various improvements and preparations underway. The anticipation is building as the community looks forward to enhanced facilities and exciting games.
Whitlock discussed some news on the repair work underway at several of the facilities following a spring tornado that saw some damage to the gymnasium. There are lighting upgrades coming to the football stadium and the baseball field. He stated that completion of the projects is looking at an October completion date.
“So hopefully, we can be able to play our basketball season in there,” Whitlock said. Teams have been practicing in our elementary gym, and we’re gonna reach out with hopefully maybe a couple other surrounding schools, maybe some practice times in bigger gyms until ours gets finished.”
Whitlock noted, “You never know with construction delays.”
The upgrades include new flooring and paint, giving the gym a fresh, modern look. “Floors are going to be redone. It will look totally different … You’ll definitely be able to tell how it’s different.”
The upgrades don’t stop there. “The concession stand will be bigger, which will be a big help for us,” Whitlock added, pointing out the benefits for fans.
At the football stadium, Morris will install new lights and a new scoreboard.
All these enhancements are expected to be ready for the first home game against Haskell, set for homecoming.
The Eagles, under Coach Robert Daniels, will be on the road for their first two games of the season.
The schedules for football and softball are already on the website, with basketball and cross country schedules soon to follow, Whitlock said. He emphasized the importance of having up-to-date schedules accessible to everyone.
Regarding new coaching staff, Whitlock shared, “Coaching wise, Emily Owens will be helping out with girls’ basketball. Codi Barnett will be the assistant basketball coach…Kelly Kendall will girls’ basketball head coach.”
Kendall also serves as the district’s Activities Director.
All the remaining coaching staff remains the same. Whitlock expressed excitement about the consistency and experience of the coaching staff district- wide. Looking ahead, Whitlock shared plans for the annual tailgate event.
“We will have our annual football tailgate on Aug. 20, at 2 p.m.,” Whitlock said. He is hoping construction and upgrades at the football field will be complete, but if not, the event could move to the baseball or softball field.
The visitor side of the football field is also seeing upgrades with new bleachers scheduled to arrive next week.
With these improvements and the dedicated efforts of the staff, Morris Public Schools are set for a promising athletic season.
“We’re excited about it, to start the year off. You always start off with best vision.. And that sets the tone,” Whitlock concluded, capturing the optimism and enthusiasm shared by the Morris community.
