By Paige Gurgainers

Current players, staff and alumni gathered at the Lakeside High School softball field Friday evening to honor Coach Gary Cooper.

Cooper began coaching in Sibley during the fall of 1998. He served as the assistant football coach and head softball coach for the last two years at Sibley High School.  

“When Lakeside High School was built, Coach Cooper became the head football coach and Athletic Director while continuing to serve the school as head softball coach. He was instrumental in the construction of the school and athletic facilities,” said Webster Parish School Counselor Julie Doyle Ramsey. “After he retired from coaching, he still worked diligently to upgrade the facilities to the ones we get to enjoy today. Tonight, we are here to honor him for the foundation he built for Lakeside High School softball and the legacy he leaves on his former players.” 

In 23 seasons, Coach Cooper experienced 342 career wins, 5 District Championships, 21 Play-off appearances, 2 players who participated in LHSAA All-Star games, 6 players who received scholarships to play on a collegiate level and was named Parish Coach of the Year on multiple occasions.  

Mayor of Sibley Robert Smart presented a proclamation naming March 22, 2024, “Coach Cooper Day.” 

Suzanne Williams, wife of recently deceased Mayor of Sibley Jimmy Williams, also spoke to Coach Cooper’s impact he has made on the community and its people. 

“Jimmy would have loved to give this award to Coach Cooper,” she said. ‘He loved Coach Cooper and the whole family. We have been around with them a long time. I know the hours he has put in. It’s a lot. I am glad Lakeside did this and he can see how much he is appreciated.” 

Many others shared memories and gave tributes including Coach Cooper’s son Adam.  

“Like many of you, my dad taught me many things. He taught me how to throw a football and hit a baseball. He taught me geometry. He taught me to lose with dignity and to win with grace. He taught me how to be a student, an athlete, a man, a husband and now a father,” said Adam. “My dad has served in many communities and I’m glad he found this one. It was a great place to grow up surrounded by my great mentors, educators and friends. Mom, not to include you would be dishonest to say the least. I know for a fact Dad wouldn’t have been able to do any of this without you.” 

Adam spoke about his father’s 40 years of service with 28 of those years being served in Webster Parish. He closed by saying, “Now it’s on to the next chapter. I know those acts of service will not stop, just that the opportunities will be different.” 

Alumni Brooke McKenzie Smith said, “Most all of us will refer to you as ‘coach’, but you are much more than just a coach.” Almost all the spoke on behalf of Cooper, not only referenced his coaching career, but also the impact that he had in other aspects of their lives including school, personal lives and their Christian walk.