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Football coach honored

Tribune file photo

Chamberlain High has renamed its football field in honor of retired Coach Billy Turner (left).

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By COURTNEY CAIRNS PASTOR

cpastor@tampatrib.com

Published: August 5, 2009

FOREST HILLS - Longtime Chamberlain football coach Billy Turner has retired, but his name will crop up at every home game.

The Hillsborough County School Board voted on July 28 to name the high school's football field in Turner's honor after parents and school administrators petitioned for it.

"Without question, Coach Turner, more than anyone else, deserves to have the Chamberlain High School football field named after him," Kim Diaz, athletic booster club president, wrote in a letter on behalf of the club and Turner's friends.

Turner spent 38 years as a high school football coach, mostly at Chamberlain. He retired in March as the winningest active coach in Hillsborough. He logged 25 winning seasons and 17 playoff appearances.

Despite his record, athletics is not what sets him apart, said Chamberlain Principal Jeff Boldt.

"Those who know Coach Turner know that football and winning are not his top priority at all," Boldt told board members.

Turner, 71, has shown dedication to his family and to his players and taught and mentored many, Boldt said.

The board approved the request. Audience members applauded and gave Turner, surrounded by his family, a standing ovation. He wiped a tear from his eye.

"It's a great honor for me and the Turner family," he said later. "I'm very proud and very humbled."

Reporter Nick Williams contributed to this report. Reporter Courtney Cairns Pastor can be reached at (727) 451-2343.

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