The family of a well-known local high school football legend Billy Henderson saved dozens of letters he wrote to them before he died in February.

Henderson coached at Athens, Ga.’s Clarke Central high school for 23 seasons, earning a record of 222-65-1 and three state titles with the Gladiators.

The University of Georgia alum also founded the Athens Hall of Fame and sponsored football camps at the Athens YMCA.

 Why It’s Newsworthy: Henderson’s family, his former players and current coaches all agree that Henderson demonstrated tough love on and off the field.  Henderson’s daughter Chris Watts shared a few of his letters with Grady Newsource reporter Abby Stolz. 

 

The letters offer a rare glimpse into winning coach’s most private thoughts about family and the sport to which he dedicated his life – football.

Abby Stolz is senior majoring in journalism.