ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Asheville High School has announced the inaugural class of its Athletic Hall of Fame, recognizing former athletes and coaches whose achievements helped define the school’s sports legacy.
School officials said the first class was intentionally broad, formally honoring longtime standouts whose jerseys have been retired or whose names already adorn school facilities. The class also includes four inductees representing the athletic traditions of Stephens-Lee and Lee Edwards high schools, whose histories are part of Asheville High’s roots.
The inductees will be recognized publicly Jan. 16 during halftime ceremonies between the varsity girls and boys basketball games when Asheville High hosts Erwin High School.
Inaugural Athletic Hall of Fame inductees
- Crezdon Butler, football
- Lawson Duncan, tennis
- Mary Montgomery, swimming
- Bruce Peterson Sr., coach (football)
- Isaac Presson, track and cross country
- Noah Ratner, golf
- Charles “Buster” Ray, football
- Rudi Schmoll, soccer
- Charles Thomas, baseball
- Willie Hayes Tobe, rootball
- Johnny White, football
- Danny Wilkins, coach (football)
- Hillary McKay Williams, soccer
Retired jersey and facility name inductees
- John Avery, football
- Larry Grant, basketball
- Gene Hammonds, baseball coach (baseball and football fields)
- Dan Hill, football
- Charlie “Choo Choo” Justice, football
- Leonard Little, football
- Henry Logan, Basketball
- Rhonda Mapp, basketball
- Rashanda McCants, basketball
- Buzz Peterson, basketball
- Ray Roberts, football
- Randy Shepard, basketball
- Sonita Warren-Dixon, basketball coach (gym floor)
School leaders said the Hall of Fame is intended to preserve Asheville High’s athletic history while celebrating the individuals whose success, leadership and character left a lasting impact on the program and the community.
