HOWARD — Jason Ewalt knew Wednesday’s track meet was special because it was Senior Night. He had no idea what else was in store for him.
“I had no idea. I can’t believe they kept this a secret all of this time,” an emotional Ewalt said on Wednesday after school officials named the East Knox Track and Field Complex after him.
Ewalt admitted to a mixture of emotions after the team’s seniors presented him with the sign that will be displayed at the complex. The coach’s descriptors were “surprised, honored, and emotional.”
Assistant Coach Lindsay Bush, whom Ewalt describes as his “right-hand man,” helped spearhead the honor, which took place at the Bulldogs’ only home meet of the season. Fittingly, it was against the Danville Blue Devils.
“Everyone is here for Senior Night,” Bush said.
As if surprised by her ability to keep the event a secret, she said, “He (Ewalt) still has no idea. I cannot believe we pulled this off.”
East Knox Athletic Director Scott Brickner had nothing but praise for Ewalt on his special night.
“This is a major accomplishment for East Knox,” Brickner said.
“Jason has achieved so much in 30 years. He has been so dedicated to the kids and this community, it’s incredible.”
Brickner went deeper than just statistics.
“He is an excellent coach, but more importantly, he is an excellent person. I’m so glad it was a surprise and that the kids could give this to him on Senior Night,” Brickner said.
Many things happen in a 30-year career, but Ewalt had little trouble remembering one highlight in particular.
“In 2010, we won our first championship. We ended up winning the conference meet by a point over Fredericktown,” he said. “There were more before that, but that was one that really hit because it was the first championship for East Knox.”
Ewalt’s legacy cemented in school history
What does the future hold for Coach Jason Ewalt and the East Knox track program? Does he plan to stay with it for a while?
“I’m not sure. We’ll see where it takes me. It is just year-to-year for me,” he said.
Regardless of how long Ewalt remains at the helm, there will always be a reminder of the man who shaped the East Knox track program. As the sign says, “Jason Ewalt Track Complex, dedicated in honor of Head Coach Jason Ewalt, who started the East Knox track program and served as its head coach for more than 30 years. Dedicated April 30, 2025.”