[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 29 (Tuesday, February 14, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E340]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


        JIMMY EARLE: INDUCTED TO TEN- NESSEE SPORTS HALL OF FAME

                                 ______


                            HON. BART GORDON

                              of tennessee

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 14, 1995
  Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a constituent and 
special individual, Jimmy Earle, upon his induction to the Tennessee 
Sports Hall of Fame. His selection should come as no surprise as he has 
been successful everywhere he has coached.
  A graduate of Middle Tennessee State University, Jimmy began his 
basketball coaching career in 1958 at Algood High School in Putnam 
County, TN. After 1 year, he became head coach at Smithville High 
School in DeKalb County compiling a 73-17 record.
  He then stepped up to the college ranks as head basketball coach at 
Martin Methodist College in Pulaski, TN. At Martin College he once 
again produced winning teams with a record of 74-29. His teams also won 
three Dixie Conference Championships in 4 years.
  In 1965, he joined the Middle Tennessee State University coaching 
staff as assistant basketball coach and head baseball coach. As head 
coach of the baseball team, his 1968 squad won the Ohio Valley 
Conference championship and he was voted conference Coach of the Year.
  Jimmy was elevated to MTSU's head basketball coach in 1969 and for 
the next 10 years served in that capacity. Once again his winning 
tradition continued as he led his teams to two OVC championships and 
two trips to the NCAA tournament. In 1975 he became the first coach in 
school history to take a basketball team to the NCAA tournament.
  He has served as MTSU's athletic director and as an observer of 
Southeastern Conference basketball officials.
  I have known, worked with, and admired Jimmy Earle for almost 30 
years. As a graduate of MTSU, I am extremely aware of his many 
contributions to my alma meter and community. His selection to the 
Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame is well deserved. Tennessee will long 
reap the benefits of his many years of service.


                          ____________________