The death penalty was slapped on us, for integrating our basketball team. Something that today isn't given a second thought. We were made an example of by the state of Louisiana and the NCAA. Coach Shipley deserves all the credit for what that team did on the court, and none of it that happened off the court.
all that happened off the court is we paid for those player's scholarships through private funds b/c the state wouldn't give money for them (b/c they were black) even though they were eligible. The players weren't aware of the situation and neither was coach shipley I believe. unfortunately, that BS is what will keep him out of the LSHOF.
the whole hall of fame slight is strictly and typically louisiana. we can put in a convicted felon/counterfeiter who served time for printing funny money, but when it comes to a progressive thinker, and decent person like coach shipley, whose only crime was to be ahead of his, and this state's, time, we have no room for him the hall of sham. you think if he had been in baton rouge recruiting these players, he would already be in? lol. if he had been in baton rouge recruiting these players, he would have to have been coaching at southern.
The book Slam Dunked enhanced my pride in being a U.L. graduate. It provides an account of the 1954 integration in the school as well as the signing of the first black athletes in the region. I think it's the documented tribute that the school and Coach Shipley deserve. The stamp of approval of this hall of fame isn't necessary and wouldn't enhance Coach Shipley's legacy.
Coach Shipley is facing a very uphill battle. He's a great man and a long time family friend. He recently missed our Christmas party for the first time in forever. Keep him in your prayers. I'll never forget some of the lessons that he taught me while growing up (both on and off the court).
igeaux.mobi
is he at Lafayette General?
Sad news. Just got news that former basketball Coach Beryl Shipley passed away last night. (Friday April 15).
Sad news about one of the legends of Cajun athletics. RIP Coach.
igeaux.mobi
my his soul rest in peace
Hopefully, the LA Hall of Fame people will one day do what is right.
Coach deserves to be in the hall of fame.
Rest in peace Coach Shipley
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