Athletic Director Jacob Ezell and Richard Graham accepting the awards on the behalf of the Deason and Green families.
Hopkinsville High School is proud to honor two exceptional athletes, Rick Deason and Jessie Green, as members of the Hall of Fame Class of 2024. Their remarkable achievements in football and track and field showcase their dedication, athleticism, and contributions to the storied history of Tiger athletics.
Rick Deason: A Two-Way Champion
Rick Deason’s football legacy at Hopkinsville High School is one of dominance and leadership. A vital player on the 1965 and 1966 state championship teams, Deason played tight end on offense and defensive end on defense, excelling as a two-way starter on the 1966 squad. In the Tigers’ run-oriented offense, his exceptional blocking skills helped clear the way for a powerful running game, while his defensive efforts solidified the team’s success.
Deason’s contributions earned him numerous accolades following the 1966 season:
- All-Western Kentucky Conference (WKC) Team
- Associated Press All-State Team
- Courier Journal All-State Team
His achievements on the field opened doors to the collegiate level, where he signed a football scholarship with the University of Kentucky. Deason’s dedication to the game and leadership qualities set a high standard for Tigers football, and his role in the program’s championship era solidifies his place in Hopkinsville’s athletic history.
Jessie Green: A Versatile Athlete
Jessie Green made his mark on Hopkinsville High School athletics with outstanding performances in both football and track and field. In just two years of varsity football, Green rushed for an impressive 1,004 yards and scored nine touchdowns, including a spectacular 74-yard touchdown run against Henry Clay High School. His ability to shine on the gridiron earned him recognition in 1967:
- All-Western Kentucky Conference (WKC) Team
- Evansville Courier First Team
- Associated Press Third Team All-State
Green’s athletic talent extended beyond football. In track and field, he displayed incredible speed and determination, winning the 220-yard dash at the Western Kentucky Conference Track Meet. His ability to excel in multiple sports exemplified the spirit of a true athlete and added to his legacy at Hopkinsville High School.
A Legacy of Excellence
Rick Deason and Jessie Green represent the best of Hopkinsville High School athletics, embodying the qualities of perseverance, skill, and leadership. From championship seasons on the football field to record-breaking achievements in track and field, their contributions have left a lasting impact on the Tigers’ storied tradition of excellence.
The induction of Deason and Green into the Hall of Fame Class of 2024 celebrates not only their athletic accomplishments but also the inspiration they provide to current and future generations of Hopkinsville athletes.
Congratulations to Rick Deason and Jessie Green on this well-deserved honor! Your legacies will forever shine as part of Hopkinsville High School’s rich history.
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