CABOT, Ark. (THV11) – For 15 years the voice of Jerry Bridges has echoed inside Cabot Panther Arena. However, following Friday afternoon, the echo will fade.
“That’s how I am, you’re either all in or you don’t do it. I just thought this was a good time”. After 15 years leading the Cabot boys basketball program Bridges is retiring, but he’s not alone. Just down the road at Panther Stadium track coach Leon White is joining him.“ Forty just sounded like a good number so I decided I wanted to come back and end on a good note.”
White as he says has lived the dream. Multiple conference championships, Division one athletes, and an Olympian. Now he says goodbye.
“The closer it gets to actually walking out the door and handing the keys to the principal I get a little more emotional about it but 40 years it’s time to be with the grandkids and my wife and do what she wants to do and that’s what I’m ready to do.”
A historic career, but for his colleague. It was a historic moment. On March night in 2016 in Hot Springs against the best player in the country. A night many thought would never happen, a Cabot Panthers boys basketball championship over 5-star Malik Monk and Bentonville. “. I got deaf ears I heard that a lot coming in but I really thought we were a sleeping giant here.”
Although these giants of their own will no longer roam the sidelines, they won’t be too far from home. “I’m going to sit underneath the tent in my lawn chair and I’m going to yell for these kids”.
“They might be able to kick me out of the gym but the other team don’t get to shoot free throws, so but I’m looking forward to being a fan and being their number one fan.”
Coach White and Bridges will be honored by the school with a ceremony Friday afternoon.