Lee Mayhall, a three-sport star at the University School of Jackson who played football at the University of North Alabama, joins Jim Frazier, Johnny Growe, Tommy Sadler and Tim Sikes 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 Lee Mayhall for a question and answer session to discuss his athletic career.

Question: First, a little background – where were you born, family, education, career?

Answer: I was born in Jackson, and my parents are Shannon and Penny Mayhall, and a sister, Victoria Mayhall Blaylock.

My wife of five years is Whitney Mayhall. We have a daughter, Rivers “Rivi” Mayhall, who is 11 months old.

I graduated from the University School of Jackson, and the University of North Alabama.

I founded ‘Common Ground Shoals Non-Profit Organization’ in 2017 to execute a mission to affirm dignity, inspire hope, and multiply leaders among marginalized youth in the West Florence, Alabama community.

I served as the executive director for four-and-a-half years, and currently serve as a board member.

We reside in Florence where I work as a Safety and Health engineer at United Launch Alliance.

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

Answer: I was very honored and thankful. Growing up it’s not something I would have expected to be awarded, so as I reflect on it, I am just very thankful to have had a career filled with minimal injuries, great coaches, and friendships for a lifetime.

Question: At the University School of Jackson, you excelled in three sports – football, basketball and baseball.

Why did you decide on football at the next level, and why did you select to continue your education and athletic career at the University of North Alabama?

Answer: Football was always my favorite – and my best sport – and the one I felt most confident in. I took a last minute visit to UNA (and) they made me a great offer.

I just felt that it was the place to go. I was undecided and didn’t feel at peace about any other school until I visited UNA.

Question: What was your experience like while playing at UNA, and does any particular game or season stand out?

Answer: Playing football at UNA was like having a full time job. They put us through a lot mentally and physically, but it is something I’ll always cherish because I have formed some of my greatest friendships through those times.

The hard times forged camaraderie with the team that was awesome – and honestly, I enjoyed getting to compete every day at practice.

My sophomore year we had the best team that I played on. It was a fun ride and we lost a heartbreaker in the quarterfinal (playoff) game.

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

Answer: I will share my gratitude I have to God and to all those in my life who have helped me along the way.

I will also speak to all the deep friendships and the joy of competing in sports.

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

(PHOTO: Lee Mayhall)