MONTICELLO, Ark. – The University of Arkansas at Monticello Athletics Department announced Shellye Byrd, Head Athletic Trainer for the Boll Weevils and Cotton Blossoms, as the 2024 recipient of the Spirit Award, presented annually at the Athletics Hall of Fame Banquet.
Introduced in 2006 – The UAM Spirit Award is given to individuals who show exceptional support and dedication to the University of Arkansas at Monticello’s athletic programs. This award is given to someone who goes above and beyond for our student-athletes and sports programs. The recipient of this award embodies the heart and soul of the team. They are not only there for the wins, but for the losses, rain delays, and the nail-biting moments. They truly bleed green and white.
“We are really excited about honoring Shellye Byrd as our spirit award winner this year,” said Athletic Director Hud Jackson. “Shellye has been at UAM for a very long time and has sacrificed so much for our athletic department, specifically, our student-athletes. She continues to work extremely hard, making sure all of our athletes are prepared week in and week out. Most importantly, Shelley is an unreal human being that is dedicated to her work and our great university.
Shellye Byrd has been with UAM Athletics since 2002, and has since, gotten to know many athletes on and off the field. As the head athletic trainer, Byrd knows the impact being in sports can have on an athlete. She can be found at every sporting event, home and away, caring for our student-athletes. Not only does she make sure the athletes are taken care of, but keeps the spirit going until the final.
When off the sideline, Shellye maintains her dedication to UAM, serving not only our student-athletes, but also coaches, and administration in the athletic training room, providing them with the care, support, and ice baths they so truly desire. It’s for her love and dedication to the university, each team, and every student-athlete that the UAM Athletics Department is proud to present this year’s Spirit Award to her.
Shellye will receive the Spirit Award on October 10 at 6:00 p.m. during the 2024 Hall of Fame Banquet held in the University Center Green Room.
Previous UAM Athletics Hall of Fame Spirit Award Recipients
2023 – Larry and Shirley Fisackerly
2022 – Jeremy Woodall
2021 – Tim and Roxanne Smith
2020 – Gay and Grant Pace
2019 – Jim Brewer
2018 – Tommy Maxwell
2017 – Becky and Keith Phillips
2016 – Larry Smith
2015 – Walter Godwin
2014 – Gene Norton
2013 – Robert Leonard
2012 – George Harris
2011 – Buddy Carson
2010 – Charlie Baker
2009 – Katy and Don Hartley
2008 – Reginald Glover
2007 – Tommy Matthews
2006 – Bob Newman
