Renamed the Jimmy Stewart Tournament for a beloved coach and principal, the annual Doyline High School basketball tournament runs from Thursday, November 12 through Friday, November 13.
Teams from Summerfield, Castor, Word of God and Doyline will participate beginning at 4 p.m. each day.
Stewart’s daughter Jamie Stewart Gressett, who graduated from DHS in 1997, teaches at Ruston High School. Gressett said the basketball tournament has always been and will always be to her a favorite tradition at the school.
“Growing up at Doyline High School, the tournament was always one of our biggest events, and I have so many fond memories of exciting basketball games, good food, school spirit and fellowship during the tournament,” Gressett said. “From Mrs. Wilson’s personalized banners for every player and cheerleader to her signs representing all of the schools participating in the tournament to the cinnamon rolls on Saturday morning, the tournament was always special.”
She said the community in Doyline always revolved around Doyline basketball, and the loyal Panther fanbase is something she has always been proud of.
“I could truly never put a value on what Doyline basketball means to me, but thinking of the people like my dad, Coach Roach, Jerry Walker and so many more who have helped make Doyline basketball what it is brings up so many heartwarming memories,” she added. “Doyline basketball is full of pride and tradition, and I am grateful for all of those who have invested in it whether that was years ago or today. I may not currently live in Doyline, but you can bet that I’m following their basketball program proudly.”
See above graphic for the tournament schedule.