Over the years, the Southampton Volleyball team has seen players and coaches come and go. One constant that has remained the same, however, is one man. Chester Hardy has been attending Girls Volleyball matches ever since he can remember. Win or lose, Mr. Hardy can always be seen in his own section for every game wearing his “lucky” brown trench coat, always in his now famous pose of having his hands thrust deeply into his pants’ pockets at all times. Known for his intensity during the games, other fans have learned to allow him his own section to himself. “He just gets really excited when the girls come out” Coach Sue Phyllis said.
Before the match with Franklin High School took place, the Lady Indians recognized Chester Hardy with the Spirit Award. “This award signifies his contribution to our success over the years. Through good years, and tough years, Mr. Hardy has always been there supporting us every season. We’d like to take the opportunity to recognize him tonight and thank him” said Coach Phyllis.
Mr. Hardy briefly addressed the crowd saying, “Thank you for the award, it has been an enormous pleasure watching you young girls in action over the years. But let’s not make tonight about me. Let’s play well tonight. I want to hear a lot of grunting out there, and to see you really get after it.”
Hardy summed up his love for the girls and the sport, stating “There’s just something about girls this age.”