Singing coaches nothing new in Wharton County
JERRY AULDS

Step aside Jessie Crow, a new singing coach - Jerrell Barron - just stepped up.

Now, let me explain. Crow and Barron are not coaches who teach aspiring singers proper vocal techniques, but football coaches who sing.

In point of fact, both sing not just any old song, but take on and sing, a cappella, The Star-Spangled Banner, probably one of the most difficult pieces any singer can attempt to perform.

In point of fact, Crow, now the athletic director in Freeport for the Brazosport school district and formerly the AD and head football coach for the Wharton Tigers and Yoakum Bulldogs, was the very first coach I ever heard render our national anthem at an athletic event. It was an electric goose bump moment.

The electricity and goosebumps were back the moment Coach Barron's stirring voice enveloped 7,000 fans at the annual renewal of the El Campo Ricebirds and Bay City Blackcats gridiron rivalry under the Friday Night Lights at Ricebird Stadium in El Campo, Oct. 19.

When the last stirring note of "… home of the brave" rang through the cool evening, the crowd erupted, applauding with unrestrained passion for both the song and the man who had given it voice for them.

On the field later Barron, the Ricebirds' varsity coach for receivers and defensive backs, displayed his passion for kids and the game.

Ricebird AD and head football coach Bob Gillis told me later that even with the game ahead, he felt the same tingling as the fans.

"He is a wonderful coach and singer, but best of all, Coach Barron is a good, good man."

As proof, Gillis cited Barron's behavior following the recent death of his (Barron's) father.

"We told him to go to Mississippi and take care of what he needed to do," Gillis said.

Before departing, Barron told Gillis he would be back for the game. Gillis told him not to be concerned.

Prior to that Friday night's game, Barron called.

"He was hung up in traffic, but said he would be here at halftime," Gillis said.

Barron made it.

One of his fellow coaches said, "He inspires kids."

One final word for Coach Crow: You don't have to step aside. How about a duet?