Sadarius Delk, a senior star on the Haywood High Basketball team, surprised one of his biggest fans, Rich Nichols, for lunch on Friday, February 7.  Rich Nichols loves going to the Haywood High School games to cheer on the entire team, but especially to watch Sadarius dunk! Although Rich is physically handicapped and isn’t able to play many sports himself, he loves all sports and especially Tomcat football and basketball. He hopes to be a sports announcer and commentator one day so he can “talk sports” as a career.

Mr. James Delk, the janitorial project manager for Haywood County Schools, discusses sports with Rich often and wanted to do something special for him and arranged the lunch.

Mr. Delk said, “Rich was speechless when Sadarius walked in, but soon began discussing recent HHS and college basketball highlights.” Sadarius asked Rich who his favorite basketball players were, and he said, “you and Michael Jordan.” Sadarius responded by saying, “No, I mean famous basketball players.”  Rich then said, “You are famous to me, Sadarius!”

Rich told his parents it was the best day ever! The staff at Haywood Elementary commented on how respectful and kind Sadarius was to the adults and students during his visit. The Tomcats are undefeated going into the district tournament. This is an example of why we can be proud of them on and off the court. They are so much more than good athletes!