Athletic Director Named to Hall of Fame

Converse Athletic Director Joy Couch was inducted into the South Carolina Athletic Coaches Association Hall of Fame July 22 at the Charleston Area Convention Center. She was nominated for the award by her fellow coaches throughout the state.

During the special ceremony Sunday, Couch said “Recognition awarded by those we work most closely with is particularly special. Being inducted into the Hall of Fame is an unbelievable honor, and I never thought of being included in this elite group. Time has passed so quickly. I’ve always realized bringing something to a close causes us to reflect a bit. As a game ends, (we) think ‘I wish I had ….’ or ‘in the 2nd quarter I should have…’ and occasionally ‘Man, what a brilliant move that was…’ But as my coaching career ended this season, I found myself savoring every moment, wanting to pay close attention to every detail and realizing how very much I have enjoyed my career. Former North Carolina State Coach Jim Valvano said it best: ‘Most people go to the office, I coach; I am blessed.’”

Before she was named Athletic Director at Converse, Couch amassed a 551-189 record during her 28 years of experience as a basketball coach in Spartanburg County. Since 1998, she served as physical education teacher, department chair and girls basketball coach at Dorman High School, where she led the Cavaliers to three AAAA state championship victories and won the regional championship every year. Prior to Dorman, Couch achieved impressive records as golf, volleyball and basketball coach at Chapman High School while teaching physical education at Inman Elementary. She has taught and coached at Broome High School and Byrnes High School and served as coordinator of women’s athletics and coach at Limestone College.

“My new Challenge at Converse has reenergized my competitive spirit and gives me opportunity to continue my passion for women’s athletics empowering women to have the courage to pursue their dreams,” said Couch.