Tim Sikes joins Jim Frazier, Johnny Growe, Lee Mayhall and Tommy Sadler as the newest members of the Jackson-Madison County Sports Hall of Fame, when the 37th class is inducted at 6:30 p.m., March 28, at the Carl Perkins Civic Center.

Jimmy Duke, who emceed the hall of fame festivities for 20 years, will be the recipient of the 2023 Billy Schrivner Distinguished Service Award, and Patrick Willis, retired all-Pro linebacker with the San Francisco 49ers, will serve as guest speaker.

Grace Media Group – NEWS/TALK 101.5 FM, 93.1 & WNWS.COM visited with Tim Sikes for a question and answer session to discuss his athletic background and his career after sports.

Question: First, a little background information. Where are you originally from, family, education and career?

Answer: I’m originally From Jackson, and graduated from North Side High School in 1974, Union University in 1978, where I obtained a Bachelor of Science Degree with a major in Business Administration.

My career path has been management with Rodeway Truck Lines 1978 and 1979, Industrial Recruiter for Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development 1980 to 1988.

From 1988 to 1993, I was in Marketing and Sales with Reliable Coatings, which was bought out by Valspar Corporation.

I’m (now) a partner with Associated Packaging Incorporated.

I’m the youngest of seven children – three sisters and three brothers. All of my brothers participated in sports.

My brother Bud (2016 Hall of Fame inductee) played football and basketball at North Side, and then played baseball at Union in the early 60’s.

David played basketball at North Side, but i do not think they had baseball at that time.

David then played baseball and basketball at Jackson State Community College, and at Union where he graduated.

Phil also played baseball and basketball at North Side. He was a great second baseman who started on his Babe Ruth state championship team. He also played for Jackson’s American Legion baseball team, and later at Jackson State Community College.

Question: What were your thoughts when you were informed you had been selected for induction into the Jackson-Madison County Sports Hall of Fame?

Answer: I was very happy, humbled, grateful and excited.

Question: Besides graduating from North Side High School, you excelled in football, basketball and baseball. Can you tell us the positions you played in each sport, and a favorite game or two?

Answer: I played shortstop in baseball, point guard in basketball, wide receiver, running back, defensive back, safety and returned kickoffs in football.

Favorite games? Winning the Tennessee State championship in baseball’s 1968 Dixie Youth League, and winning baseball’s American Legion Tennessee State Championship in 1974.

Question: You decided to continue your education – and playing career – at Union University. Why did you decide to play baseball in college?

Answer: Baseball was the sport that I was the most competitive in. Baseball suited my abilities more than the other sports.

Question: Did you consider coaching after graduation, and are you still associated with sports, today?

Answer: I never wanted to coach for a living, but wanted to help young ball players learn the game of baseball in a more in depth way than most had experienced.

Question: Would you give us an idea of what you will speak about when you are inducted into the Hall of Fame?

Answer: Our time is very short so, I can not get into any lengthy speaking that night. I hope to touch on always striving for excellence … even if you do not achieve that, you will always make improvements.

Improving your life or your situation in life – is very rewarding.

I also intend to introduce as many family members and friends in attendance. These people are the most important people in my life.

For tickets and reservations, call Beth Sedberry (731) 616-8558.

(PHOTO: Tim Sikes)