After retiring from his duties as a superintendent in the Ohio public school system, Souther came to Lee as the women’s head basketball coach and teacher. For 10 years he directed outstanding hoop clubs and also coached women’s fastpitch softball for four seasons.
“Coach Souther has been a vital part of our athletic department for many years,” said Lee Athletic Director Larry Carpenter. “Not only has he coached three varsity sports, his team’s excelled in each.”
Carpenter noted that Souther has taken the Lee golf program to the top tier. Competing for a conference and regional title and advancing to the national tournament is expected. “Anything less than that comes as a disappointment for him,” the AD pointed out.
“Coach is a tireless worker and is loved by his team and fellow coaches,” added Carpenter. “At 81 years old, he still comes in every morning wanting to know what he can do to help others. He’s one of the most loyal and supportive people to ever coach at Lee and will certainly be missed by all of us. Jack has left his mark on Lee University and the many students who have come in contact with him. I wish him all the best as he leaves the coaching profession and takes a well deserved break.”
The break comes as Souther’s wife, Gene, continues to battle a serious illness. “I just can’t leave her,” he said. “I can no longer give the time it takes to continue a winning program. We’ve got some good young golfers and more good ones coming. I believe I’m leaving the program in excellent condition”
Souther took over the Lee golf program for the late Stanley Butler during the 1992-93 season. He has taken the Flames to four straight NAIA National Tournaments and has helped produce two first-team All-Americans. Over the years, Lee has traveled around the southeast to take part in some of the nation’s best invitational tournaments.
Over the past two season, the Flames have filled the golf trophy case. They have claimed seven spring tournament championships and won several individual medalist crowns. In 2006, Lee captured the Southern States Athletic Conference title. In 2007, Souther directed the Flames to their highest ranking ever by the NAIA, seventh in the nation.
Carpenter said a search will begin immediately for a new coach to direct not only the men’s program, but also the women’s golf team which will begin its first season during the 2008-09 school year.