Henderson State University Athletics

After spending four years in the Air Force, Jimmy Jones came to Henderson State and was a three-year letterman for the Reddies. In 1957 and 1958 he played both offense (center) and defense (tackle). In 1959 he began the season as a defensive tackle and moved to center following the second game of the year. He was part of the 1959 AIC Championship team which finished the year with a 6-2-1 record. Despite being married with two children and having to travel from Bearden on a daily basis, Jones managed a full course load often taking 21 hours per semester. He graduated in 33 months from Henderson in May of 1960. Following graduation,  Jimmy coached for 10 years, with coaching stops at Arkansas High, Cooper High School (Texas), Mt. Peasant High School (Texas), two years at East Texas State University, and one year at Ouachita Baptist University. While coaching Jimmy earned two masters degrees. He returned to Henderson in the Fall of 1970 and later became a Professor in the Physical Education Department teaching for 30 years. Jimmy earned his Doctorate in Educational Management in 1982 from East Texas State. He is now retired Professor Emeritus.