Clarksville, Ark.-University of the Ozarks Head Women's Basketball Coach Carl Ramsey was honored prior to the Lady Eagles game Saturday for his 35 years of coaching success.
U of O Athletics Director Jimmy Clark presented Ramsey, who was unaware of the ceremony, with a plaque at half court in front of a number of his former players. During the ceremony, Ramsey was praised "for his long-time commitment and dedication to young people as a coach, educator and role model. His coaching, teaching and service is truly appreciated and respected by all who have been associated with him the past 35 years."
He is in his fifth season at U of O and has led the program to two post-season appearances. His current team is once again in contention for post-season play. During his tenure, he has coached four Academic All-District players and ten All-Conference performers. Following the 2010-2011 season, he was named the American Southwest Conference East Division Coach of the Year.
"I was real surprised this happened today," said Ramsey. "They slipped that one in on me. I've been fortunate to win a few games and win some championships during my career. But I think it is the relationships that have kept me going for 35 years, not the wins and the losses. Those relationships are why I've stayed around in this business."
Prior to U of O, he coached 29 seasons at Lamar High School, where he became a household name and one of the most successful and respected coaches in Arkansas. At Lamar, he posted a 660-227 (.744%) overall record. Eight of his teams went to the state tournament, with his 1988 and 1991 squads winning state championships.
"My high school coaching career is unique because I stayed at one place the entire time," he said. "There, I was able to coach hundreds of girls, and then coach their kids. Former players typically bring up games from long ago and that always sparks pleasant memories."
He and his wife, Kathy, have been married 31 years and are the parents of two children. Keaton is a senior at Lamar and Kelsey, a recent Ozarks graduate, works in Hot Springs, Ark. Ramsey credits his family's strong support system for any success he has had.
"I couldn't ask for a better family," he said. "Kathy grew up in a coaching family, so she knew the sacrifices a family makes. She has never said anything about it and has always been there. I couldn't be more proud of my two kids. Kelsey is a graduate of Ozarks and is a special girl. My son Keaton told me two days ago that he wanted to attend school here and coach with me. At the end of the day, my family has never cared how many games I've won or lost."