New Paint and Name for Erwin’s Gym - TribPapers
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New Paint and Name for Erwin’s Gym

Erwin gym sporting new paint and new name.

LeicesterThe Erwin High Warriors gymnasium now sports a new red and white paint job bearing the name of a well-known former Clyde A. Erwin High coach and teacher. As part of ongoing efforts to improve the Erwin campus, the outdoor entryway now reads “David Ball Gymnasium” with “Home of the Warriors” printed below. The gymnasium was dedicated to Mr. Ball on April 20, 2015, and now the building bears his name both inside and out.

“David is well respected in our school,” said Principal Greg Bailey. “He’s also been instrumental in our Hall of Fame process and in our whole community.”

Ball graduated from Erwin in 1975 and served as a social studies teacher and coach from 1979 through 1998 when he accepted the role of Athletic Director. He was inducted into the North Carolina Athletic Directors Association Hall of Fame in 2018 and today serves as the District Athletic Specialist for all Buncombe County schools. 

Ball didn’t know about the new sign until he received a photo and text message from Erwin staff this week.

“I feel honored,” Ball said. “The sign is very professionally done and is consistent with signage honoring John G. Kerr, Cotton Bagwell and Bob Johnson. Athletic Director Barry Owens and Principal Greg Bailey are to be complimented for the physical improvements they have made to the facilities at Erwin High School.”

“I’m privileged to serve our schools and work to elevate them to their highest level,” said Ball in a March 2019 interview with Rickert.

Editor’s note: Rickert is with the BCS Communications Department.