From left to right are the district champion Jacksboro Eagles: Number 4-John Jones, 44-Jake Lawson, 11-Will Croley, 12-Sam Sexton, Coach Cody Parker, 14-Logan Belew, 2-Luke Lindsay, 10-Tyler Cook, Coach Brent Peel, 1-Tyler Perkins, 5-Reid Chapman and 3-Elijah Johnson

JACKSBORO, TN (WLAF) – The district tournament champion Jacksboro Eagles, who found a way to win the tourney, were recognized before the Jacksboro Middle School student body on Monday afternoon. A stand full of the players family members and fellow students stood and cheered as the team was introduced one-by-one on the court at Agee Gym.

JMS Head Basketball Cody Parker figures it’s been at least 25 years since the last Eagles title. “This kinda came out of no where. They’re scrappy and give it everything they have,” said JMS Assistant Head Coach Brent Peel.

Getting to the championship game is tough, but to win it is even tougher. “It was wild to watch, and the road we took. This team is not afraid and is very unselfish which makes for a fun ride,” said Parker.

The 5th seeded Eagles beat both Oak Ridge middle schools, Jefferson and Robertsville, and the tourney’s top seeded Norris Senators. Jefferson swept Jacksboro in the regular season, but it was the Eagles fighting back from nine points down to defeat Jefferson in the title game at Anderson High last Thursday.

JMS Head Basketball Coach Cody Parker addresses the Jacksboro Middle School student body.

Another special element to the season is that Parker and Peel have their sons along assisting; Landon Reese and Seth Pebley, both former Campbell Cougars.

Dignitaries were in attendance at the 1:30pm ceremony including Director of Schools Jennifer Fields, Secondary Supervisor Dr. Jason Horne and the chairman of the school board Johnny Byrge. School board members who represent the school’s district, district four, Josh James and Ronnie Lasley were also there to honor the Eagles. JMS Principal Gretchen Thomas served as the event’s master of ceremonies.

The 14 & 6 Eagles won their first round game in the regional tournament on Saturday at Rogersville as they defeated Happy Valley 45 to 40. The Eagles take on the Norris Senators Wednesday at Anderson High in a 4:45pm game.

JMS Coach Cody Parker applauded the students, teachers, assistants and administration for their encouragement and support.

Coach Parker included the student body in the ceremony as he explained how their Eagles found a way to bring the championship back home to JMS. He charged the students to “find a way” to reach their goals and objectives. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 02/01/2022-6AM)