Marianna High Gymnasium to be named in honor of beloved Coach Tim Goodson

By: Shelia Mader

Tim Goodson

In a unanimous 5-0 vote during its regular monthly meeting, the Jackson County School Board approved the renaming of Marianna High School’s gymnasium in honor of legendary coach Tim Goodson, cementing the legacy of a man whose impact on the community extended far beyond the basketball court.

The motion to approve the naming of the gymnasium was brought forth by board member Mr. Granberry and seconded by Mr. Jackson. Prior to the vote, several community members shared heartfelt remarks that underscored the coach’s deep influence on generations of Marianna students and athletes.

“Coach Goodson was more than just a coach, he was a mentor, a teacher, and someone you could always talk to,” said Jeanette Scott, a former player. “In the four years I played for him, we only lost nine games, and we were once ranked fifth in the nation. His record speaks for itself, but so does his character.”

Tara Roulhac Gibson, class of 1984 and one of Goodson’s former players, echoed those sentiments. “He shared us with his family. When we traveled, we traveled together, it felt like family,” she said. “Coach Goodson picked us up and moved us to the next level. His sweat, his tears, and his heart helped build that gym’s legacy.”

Coach Tim Goodson’s tenure at Marianna High in the 1980s marked a golden era for the Lady Bulldogs basketball program. Under his leadership, the team won three Florida Class 2A state championships in 1984, 1985, and 1989. His career record of 282–26 stands as a testament to his discipline, vision, and unmatched commitment to excellence.

Marianna High’s achievements under Goodson place it in rare company, alongside storied programs like Bishop Kenny (Jacksonville) and Blanche Ely (Pompano Beach), as one of the few schools to claim three girls Class 2A state titles.

But for those who knew him, Coach Goodson’s legacy wasn’t only about wins and banners.

“He built more than a program,” said one speaker. “He built a community. He made us believe in ourselves and each other.”

Coach Tim Goodson passed away in 2017, but his legacy lives on, in the victories, in the lifelong bonds formed on the court, and now, proudly, on the front of the gymnasium that helped shape so many lives.

With the passing of this motion by the school board,  the Marianna High School gymnasium will be known as the Tim Goodson Gymnasium, a permanent tribute to a coach who didn’t just build champions, but shaped lives.