Bobcat Football Program Honors Long-Time Contributor In Pre-Game Ceremony (10/19/15)

A very special pre-game ceremony, to honor a very special, much loved member of the Clarion Bobcat Football Family, was held prior to the Homecoming Game on Friday (October 16th).

RagleyFamily (Front L-R) wife Shirley, Tom (Back L-R) grandson Scott Ragley, Son Tim Ragley, daughter Terri Corbett, grandsons Ian Corbett, Logan Corbett, Tanner Corbett, son in law Tim Corbett

The Bobcats honored lifelong Clarion resident Tom Ragley, by presenting him with a plaque, in recognition of his service and loyalty to the Clarion Area Football Program.

Tom who was co-owner of Ragleys’ Bowl Arena, with his father Sam and brother Dave for 43 years, served the Bobcats as a member of the chain crew for roughly two decades. The near octogenarian also prides himself, in the fact that he missed only one Clarion area game in twenty-two years, prior to health issues, this year. The only game he missed was due to a niece’s wedding. Can you imagine that, scheduling your wedding when the Bobcats have a game (tongue in cheek)?

Everyone who knows Tom loves and respects him, as could be seen, by the entire Bobcat Team and coaching staff giving him hugs and handshakes prior to the game. And this love and respect extends beyond the Bobcats shown by the Cats opposing coaches, Union head coach Dave Louder (a former Bobcat himself) and assistant Rick Atzeni also offering him their congratulations, before the game.

Tom, was joined for the ceremony by his wife of 56 years, Shirley, his children Tim Ragley, his daughter Terri Corbett and her husband Tim and grandsons, Logan, Tanner and Ian Corbett and Scott Ragley.

Coach Wiser presenting Tom with the plaque

The humble Marine veteran gave a short speech showing his appreciation for receiving the recognition.

Athletic Director Nancy Mills handed the plaque to Coach Wiser who then presented it to Mr. Ragley.

The plaque reads:

“Special Thanks To Tom Ragley From the CAHS Football Team for roughly two decades of tireless service as a member of the chain crew and for and for missing only one Clarion Area Varsity Football Game in twenty-two years. Presented on: Friday, October 16, 2015”

The Plaque

Coach Wiser had this to say about Mr. Ragley, “Tom was an important influence on me over the years. His positive nature combined with the rapport he had with players and coaches over the years in my estimation was important.”

When asked after the ceremony, how it felt to receive the award, an emotional Mr. Ragley said, “Well, I did something I wanted to do and like to do. I didn’t want all this recognition, I didn’t need all this. I did it because I like to do it. I like the kids and I like being around the kids. Thank you so very much.”

No, Tom. From everyone who you’ve touched over the years, by your involvement with Bobcat Football, “Thank you, so very much!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”