The Johnson County Community College baseball team will pay tribute to former head coach Sonny Maynard on April 11 during a ceremony at the JCCC Baseball Complex. This event includes the unveiling of his jersey and a first pitch thrown by his family, following his passing on April 6. Maynard, who broke racial barriers as JCCC's first Black coach, led the Cavaliers to national prominence in collegiate baseball, achieving 504 victories with a .741 winning percentage over 14 seasons. His legacy encompasses multiple championships and contributions to amateur baseball, coaching numerous All-Americans and preparing players for professional careers.

By the Numbers
  • 504 career wins in 14 seasons, averaging 36 wins per season.
  • Six East Jayhawk Conference titles and three Region 6 titles during his tenure.
State of Play
  • A ceremony honoring Maynard will occur at 12:45 PM on April 11.
  • Preparation for the event includes coordinating the jersey unveiling and first pitch activities.
What's Next

The upcoming ceremony aims to celebrate Maynard's impactful legacy, potentially inspiring reflections on diversity and excellence in sports coaching. Community engagement is expected to grow as JCCC honors his contributions.

Bottom Line

Sonny Maynard's dedication to collegiate sports and his historic role as a trailblazer highlights the importance of representation in athletics. His legacy serves as a reminder of the positive impact coaches can have in shaping the futures of their players.