Wednesday was Roger Shell Day at Middlesboro High School. The school took time between games of the double-header against Harlan County to celebrate Shell’s 30-plus as a volunteer equipment manager and coach as well as surprise him with the announcement that he has been nominated for the 13th Region Sports Hall of Fame.

“Roger has been a fixture of the 13th Region community for over 30 years serving as an equipment manager, coach, and friend to hundreds of athletes. Perhaps most honorably, Roger has served entirely as a volunteer, never having received a coaching stipend, working only for ‘the love of the game’ and advancement of sports within the 13th Region,” the announcement read.

During this time he has stayed faithful to the coaches he worked with through both wins and losses. Among his most memorable wins are the 2022 48th District basketball championship with Coach Ken Woods, the 2013 13th Region All ‘A’ basketball championship with Coach Russell Thompson and the 1998 Class A football state championship with Coach Kenny Roark and the Middlesboro Yellow Jackets.

“Roger has been a loving friend and member of the Middlesboro, Pineville and North Laurel communities during these 30 years,” the announcement continued. “To honor Roger’s legacy and commitment to the 13th Region, we want to both surprise and congratulate Roger on his nomination to the 13th Region Sports Hall of Fame. This honor is not only incredibly deserved for his dedication but also a touching tribute to all of the athletes Roger has helped mentor throughout the years. Through this nomination, the contributions and life of Roger Shell will be immortalized forever.”

Shell was joined at center court during the announcement by his sister Deborah Shell, niece Tammy Huff, great niece Laura Robinson and great-great nephew Coben Robinson.

A video tribute to Roger was played on the big screen inside Fuson Brother Gymnasium with messages of congratulations and thanks to Roger from many of the coaches and players he has worked with over the years. Those included: Steve Spangler, Russell Thompson, Jason Chappell, Tim Millett, Randy Frazier, Scott Jefrey, J.D. Strange, Trevor Hoskins, Zach Massengill, David Mike, Hunter Adams and the current Lady Jacket basketball team.

“I’m so excited to be a part of this special day, this is a well-deserved honor,” MHS athletic director Ben Slusher said on the video. “You’ve been a great friend to me when I was a player here and also a coach here and now as athletic director. . . I just want to thank you for everything you’ve done for me personally, and thank you for everything you’ve done for our students and our school. Have a great day!”

At the end of the ceremony any athlete or coach in attendance that had been on a team with Shell was invited to join him at center court.