North Augusta Sports Council Inducts New Hall of Fame Members

News Summary

The North Augusta Sports Council held a banquet on February 22, 2025, celebrating the induction of four new members into the North Augusta Sports Hall of Fame. Honorees included former football stars CJ Byrd and Justin Wheeler, along with Bobby Stillwell and Richmond Williams, who reflected on their athletic journeys. The event highlighted community involvement in sports and recognized current student-athletes for their achievements. The night also featured the Bob Bolton Award presentation and video tributes from family members of the inductees.

North Augusta, SC – The North Augusta Sports Council celebrated the induction of four new members into the North Augusta Sports Hall of Fame at a banquet held on February 22, 2025. This esteemed event marked a significant occasion for the community as it honored local athletes who have made notable contributions to sports in the area.

The newest inductees into the Hall of Fame include former football stars CJ Byrd and Justin Wheeler, along with Bobby Stillwell and Richmond Williams. Each honoree took the stage to reflect on their athletic journeys, sharing their experiences and the impact their time in sports had on their lives.

CJ Byrd, a standout football player who excelled at North Augusta High School, was one of the highlights of the evening. His impressive high school career earned him a ranking as the 22nd-best player in the nation in his class in 2004, leading to 33 college scholarship offers. Ultimately, Byrd chose to play for the University of Georgia from 2005 to 2007, where he continued to shine on the field.

Justin Wheeler, who played alongside Byrd during their high school years, also shared insights from his life in North Augusta, underscoring his transition from basketball to football. Wheeler’s performance in high school paved the way for him to join Vanderbilt University as a wide receiver from 2005 to 2009, where he further developed his skills and passion for the sport.

Bobby Stillwell took a nostalgic approach, reminiscing about North Augusta athletics during the 1950s and 60s. He emphasized the supportive role of his father’s coaching legacy and reiterated the importance of community in fostering athletic achievement. Stillwell, who played for Furman University, also conveyed heartfelt memories about the bonds formed with teammates during challenging competitions.

Richmond Williams concluded the series of speeches by expressing his gratitude to those mentors and teammates who helped guide him throughout his athletic career. Williams highlighted the significance of teamwork and encouragement in achieving success, reminding attendees of the collective effort required in sports.

The banquet not only inducted the new Hall of Fame members but also provided an opportunity for fellowship among former and current coaches, athletes, and community supporters. A meal was served as part of the festivities, allowing attendees to engage with one another in honoring the achievements of these exemplary athletes.

During the event, Brad Siverhus was the recipient of the Bob Bolton Award. He acknowledged the contributions of the North Augusta Booster Club, recognizing their ongoing support for local athletics and its vital role in nurturing young talent.

The ceremony also included recognition for several current North Augusta student-athletes, who were awarded Athletes of Distinction, honoring their achievements in various sports. Each inductee’s speech was introduced by a touching video message from a family member or friend, adding a personal and heartfelt touch to the night’s proceedings.

The community came together to celebrate the honored athletes and their contributions to North Augusta’s rich athletic history. The induction ceremony served as a reminder of the value of sports in fostering unity, pride, and growth within the community.

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Additional Resources

• Post and Courier: North Augusta Sports Hall of Fame
• Wikipedia: North Augusta, South Carolina
• Augusta Jags: Augusta Athletics Honors Student-Athletes
• Google Search: Augusta Athletics
• Augusta Jags: Augusta Athletics Named National Runner-Up
• Google Scholar: Augusta University Athletics
• Augusta Jags: Watch Live 2025 William Sherrill Athletic Awards Banquet
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Sports