Thundering applause echoed throughout the gym as beloved teacher and Assistant Athletic Director Tim Perry rose to receive his award.
On Nov. 16, Perry and his son, Nick Perry, class of ’01 were inducted into the JC Athletic Hall of Fame. Tim accepted his son’s award on his behalf.
“When Mr. Dukes told me that [my son] Nick had been elected, I was so very pleased for him that I almost did not hear him mention my name also,” Tim said.
Tim was recognized for his dedication as a long-time teacher and coach, as well as varsity football assistant coach and Assistant Athletic Director for 16 years. He was Assistant Coach of the Year in 1999 and 2004, two years of his 38-year career of coaching high school and recreational football.
“As I said in my acceptance speech, we do this job as teacher, coach, and athletic administrator not for rewards but because we enjoy doing it. It is not always easy, but it is very rewarding, as we get a chance to help athletes grow into champions both on and off the field and in the classroom. I truly am blessed, and I am so very grateful to be honored by the Athletic Department,” Tim said.
Nick, played football, wrestled, and ran track and field. He was varsity football captain as a senior and received the 2000 Gerry Gray Football Award, an award in honor of JC’s first football coach Gerry Gray that is awarded to one senior each year with exemplary character and sportsmanship.
Nick was an All-Harford County Selection for three years and a four-time “Sporting Times” Super 33 selection.
“I was truly blessed to be inducted and being asked to speak for my son. I know he will treasure this honor as much as I do and it is my hope that he will not only honor his family, but also bring honor to John Carroll with his selection,” Tim said.
In addition to Tim and Nick, two other alumni were inducted. The first inductee was John Goles, class of ’86, who played soccer and lacrosse during his time at JC. He started on varsity soccer for four years and became captain of the team as a senior. He was also winner of the Outstanding Athlete Award for varsity lacrosse.
The second student, the only girl to be inducted that night, was Megan Sparks, class of ’00. Sparks played soccer and basketball and ran track and field. She received the McCormick Unsung Hero Award that is presented to one female basketball player that meets the “Unsung Hero” criteria. She was a Maryland Distinguished Scholar, a member of the White Blazer Society, and her class’s valedictorian.
For each inductee, a slideshow was presented with pictures of involvement their respective sports, as each inductee walked up to receive the award. Facing all the attendees of the Sports Banquet, the inductees shared a few words about how much it meant to them to join those honored before them in the Athletic Hall of Fame.
“It was a very proud and humbling moment. To be included among the past inductees is truly a privilege and an honor. It was something special to be inducted in front of my family, friends, and especially the student athletes and their parents. I thank Mr. Dukes and the selection committee for this very exciting and kind award,” Perry said.
Cara Reilly can be reached for comment at [email protected].