Tuesday, April 23, 2024
Martè Bailey’s passion for kids and sports have long been a priority for the 2008 Gatesville High School graduate.
He remembers well how much it meant to him to play football and baseball as a kid.
“I remember when Coach Cooper came here and he wanted to know why I wasn’t playing sports,’’ Bailey said.
Bailey had played in the seventh and eighth grade and got hurt. He missed out on his chance to play until his senior year.
As a 5-10, 240-pounder, he played a lineman position for the Hornets during the 2007 season.
“I never was real fast, but I’d hit you,’’ Bailey said.
Bailey has made a comeback to Gatesville in the city’s Parks and Recreation Department. He is now the new Gatesville Recreation supervisor for athletics. Seth Phillips was promoted to Parks and Recreation Director and now manages athletics, the parks and the city pool.
“I’m doing what Seth (Phillips) did,’’ Bailey said. “I’m glad to work with the kids and sports. I‘ve always enjoyed working with the kids.’’
The 32-year-old Bailey has worked with the city in various roles in the past, but said the new job allows him to build his ties with the city.
“I had worked for the railroad and had been all over the place,’’ he said. “This job gets me back in Gatesville. It’s a good fit that allows me to be with my kids more. I have a 4-year-old, a 3-year-old and one due in April.’’
The move for Bailey came through on Nov. 29. He has been busy, turning his attention to planning upcoming sports.
The Parks and Recreation Department is currently looking for sponsors and coaches for the upcoming soccer and baseball/softball leagues.
The cost to sponsor one soccer team is $100. Baseball and softball sponsorship's are $225.
The contact number for Bailey is 254-499-1015.
