FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 4, 2025 Benton Central Hosts 33rd Annual Dick & Rita Atha Memorial Sportsmanship Banquet - A Unique Tradition Honoring Integrity, Respect, and Character in High School Athletics Oxford, IN – Benton Central High School proudly hosted the 33rd Annual Dick & Rita Atha Memorial Sportsmanship Banquet, a one-of-a-kind event that honors the core values of high school athletics—fair play, respect, and integrity. This long-standing tradition is a tribute to the vision of Mr. Dick Atha, a legendary educator, coach, and administrator whose legacy continues to inspire the Benton Central community. This year’s keynote address was delivered by 2025 Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame inductee Dave McCollough, the current head coach at Connersville High School. Coach McCollough, who holds an outstanding 640–313 record over 41 seasons in Indiana high school basketball, shared powerful reflections on leadership, character, and the lasting value of sportsmanship in competition. The banquet remains unique in the state of Indiana, as Benton Central is believed to be the only school that formally recognizes athletes from opposing schools for exemplary sportsmanship demonstrated while competing against Benton Central teams. Each year, coaches and student-athletes from Benton Central’s athletic programs select one opposing athlete who has consistently displayed class, humility, and respect in competition. These athletes are then introduced during the banquet by a Benton Central student-athlete chosen by their own coaching staff for representing the same values. This year, 12 area high schools were represented among the 21 awards presented, highlighting the widespread commitment to sportsmanship throughout the region. “This banquet is more than a ceremony—it’s a celebration of the character and sportsmanship that make high school sports truly meaningful,” said Jared Hall, Athletic Director at Benton Central. “Mr. Atha believed that how we compete matters just as much as the result, and this event continues to reflect his belief that sportsmanship is the true spirit of athletic competition.” The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) strongly supports the principles celebrated at this banquet, promoting education-based athletics that prioritize ethical behavior and personal growth. Benton Central is proud to uphold these ideals and continue a tradition that sets a standard for others to follow. The Dick & Rita Atha Memorial Sportsmanship Banquet remains a powerful reminder that sports are at their best when played with integrity, and that honoring good character is just as important as recognizing athletic achievement.