SALYERSVILLE — The Kentucky High School Athletic Association, in partnership with Friends of Coal Kentucky, has introduced the Friends of Coal Captains Club, a new initiative that recognizes and celebrates exceptional student-athlete leaders from across the Commonwealth.
The Friends of Coal Captains Club honors student-athletes who not only excel in their sport but also demonstrate leadership, resilience and a deep commitment to their teammates and communities.
These values are at the core of both Kentucky’s coal industry and interscholastic athletics.
Among the Friends of Coal Captains Club honorees is Magoffin County High School girls’ basketball player Abigail Bradley. As a senior in the 2024-25 girls’ high school basketball season, Bradley helped to lead the Lady Hornets.
“The Friends of Coal Captains Club is about more than athletic performance – it’s about character, teamwork and the perseverance that defines both Kentucky coal miners and our student-athletes,” said Terry Marsh, Chairman of Friends of Coal Kentucky. “These captains represent the best of our schools and our communities.”
“There is no doubt that the rich history and importance of the coal industry and the border-to-border community importance of interscholastic athletics are forever intertwined in our Commonwealth,” said KHSAA Commissioner Julian Tackett. “This recognition is a natural extension of our partnership with Friends of Coal, and we are proud to highlight student-athletes who exemplify resilience, reliability and leadership.”
The Friends of Coal Captains Club will continue to grow each year as more outstanding student-athletes across Kentucky are recognized for their impact on and off the field. This honor celebrates the longstanding connection between coal communities and high school sports, spotlighting those who lead by example.
Honorees of the Friends of Coal Captains Club were nominated by their team coaches and school athletic directors. All schools are encouraged to participate in future years to ensure their team leaders are recognized.
