In Memory of Gary Haynes, Palacios High School - Chevy Spotlight

At 1-4 the Palacios Sharks certainly aren’t having the season they’d like, but the wins and losses are secondary in many ways as the football team and the community copes with shocking loss of a beloved assistant coach and former athlete. The memory of Gary Haynes Jr. is this week’s Chevy Spotlight. As LaShonda Haynes sees the tribute to her late husband Gary at the entrance of Palacios High School it’s still hard to grasp the reality that the Gentle Giant who brought joy to the lives of so many is gone. Haynes died from a heart attack over the summer, at the age of 40. Haynes was a star player for the Sharks in the early 90’s, was the MVP of the JUCO national championship game in 94, and after a career at U of H reached the practice squad of the Colts. It’s no question that Haynes impacted the lives of so many, from his own 3 kids to the numerous players, coaches, and friends that are now left with a void. The Sharks have only reached the playoffs once since 1964 when they won the state championship. The trophy from that game along with Coach Haynes hat and sunglasses adorns the Palacios coach’s office. The Sharks are playing in memory of Haynes this season with his initials on the back of their helmets. They have a young squad and chances are the record won’t be fitting of such a special tribute, but laying the foundation for future success would be just as meaningful. The memory of Palacios’ Gary Haynes Jr., this week’s Chevy Spotlight.