Manchester earns recognition for 50 years of RHS support

Lavern "Mac" Manchester has long been a staple of the Rector community. A seemingly tireless contributor, Manchester has been an active supporter of Rector athletics dating back to his time at the school. That's quite an accomplishment considering all the events which have taken place in the community and the world as a whole since he graduated from RHS in 1938.

"The school is very, very important to our town," Manchester said. "I may not have always known that as a young man, but it's one of those things you become more aware of as time goes on."

While the exact total may never be known, it's safe to say Manchester has been present for more than 3,000 baseball, football and basketball games over the last 50 years.

"I like going to the games. I like seeing the kids go out and play. You're not just going to a game, you're going to an event for the whole community. You never know who you'll run across at a game. You might see someone you haven't talked to in years."

While he's often in the stands, Manchester is not just another face in the crowd.

"We're talking about someone who is one of the most loyal fans in the history of Rector sports," Hall of Fame president Lavaughn Robertson said. "When you think about how many nights he's gone out to the gym or the ballfield, it's really incredible."

Though not an athlete himself, Manchester and his wife, Jane, raised four children who have all been involved in Rector sports.

Their daughter, Lisa, was a majorette. The 1977 grad is in her 29th year of teaching business at RHS.

Their son, Mark, lettered in basketball, baseball and tennis at then-Clay County Central, where he was a 1989 graduate. Today, he is the RHS athletic director and girls basketball coach.

Son Jason graduated from CCC in 1993. He was a letterman in basketball, baseball and football. A member of the 1992 state baseball championship team, he later played basketball at Williams Baptist College. Today, he is the boys basketball and tennis coach at Valley View.

Their youngest child, Kevin, graduated from CCC in 1994, where he lettered in baseball, basketball and football. He, too, was a member of the school's 1992 state championship baseball squad. He is now a successful businessman in Paragould.

Manchester's contributions extend beyond that of a committed supporter of Rector sports. He also has been a community and county leader through his efforts as a member of the Rector City Council, Clay County Quorum Court and city recorder/treasurer. He has served as chairman of the Rector Labor Day Picnic and was recognized as Harps Grocery Employee of the Year.

Manchester said he was taken by surprise with the announcement of his induction into the RHS Sports Hall of Fame.

"It was a surprise to me. It wasn't something I expected. It's an honor and a privilege to be a part of something like this. It makes me feel good."

Manchester will be honored during a special luncheon at the school's cafeteria at noon Saturday, Sept. 5. A plaque featuring his image and contributions will be placed in the RHSSHOF case in the school gymnasium.