Board names Loretta High School stadium for longtime coach Butch Toner

The Lawrence County School Board voted unanimously Oct. 23 to name Loretta High School’s football stadium Butch Toner Stadium, honoring the longtime coach and community figure.

Board members and community supporters described Coach Butch Toner’s impact on generations of students beyond athletics. Director Michael Atkins summarized the community petition and public comment process, saying more than 500 residents supported the naming and that the district followed the board’s naming procedure and held the required public meeting.

Board action: A motion to approve the naming carried on a roll call vote with all members present voting in favor. The board also authorized Director Atkins to arrange appropriate nameplates, plaques or other signage; Atkins said he would report back on costs and expected the expense to be no more than $2,500.

Ceremony and timeline: the district plans a recognition ceremony at the stadium; staff said plaque production may extend beyond this week but a ceremony could be scheduled about a week from the meeting. The board asked staff to pursue the necessary arrangements and to check for any county or city interest in the facility.

What was said: ‘‘This man is one of the greatest men I’ve ever known,’’ a board member said while urging approval, describing Toner’s influence on former students and the community. Director Atkins reiterated that the naming process included a public meeting and collection of supporting signatures.

Next steps: staff will purchase and install signage and report costs to the board; the board authorized the director to proceed promptly so a ceremony could be scheduled during the current football season.